From Here: Nadia’s Whole Garden
From Here is a glimpse into the rhythms of the Tutukaka Coast — locals sharing their favourite spots, crafts that define their work, and the moments that make this place feel like nowhere else.
Nadia Pavlovich runs an organic, no-dig market garden in Glenbervie, just before the Tutukaka Coast. Nadia’s Whole Garden is a thriving market garden filled with organically grown vegetables, fruits, and flowers. She operates a Summer Farm Shop and offers seasonal pick-your-own flowers and vegetables, with options for delivery or pickup. Read below as Nadia shares her passion for growing food sustainably and her life on the Tutukaka Coast.
Nadia: My connection to the Tutukaka Coast began when I was 3 years old, I was lucky enough to travel up to Matapouri most weekends & school holidays when I was younger. I had my first year of school at Ngunguru School. It is a very special place for my entire family. I always felt a deep connection to the ocean, crying at the end of school holidays when we had to go back home. When I was 19 years old, my digestive system shut down and I became very unwell. During my long recovery, I spent a lot of time on the Tutukaka Coast, the connection I had when I was younger hadn't faded. Through a lot of time in bed on Youtube, I discovered market gardening and the taste difference of homegrown compared to shop bought. In 2020, I established Nadia's Whole Garden, with two clear objectives; to provide the community with nutrient dense produce and improve people's connection to food. Establishing in Glenbervie, meant the connection I had always felt, became full circle as I established home and community in Tutukaka Coast, where I had always longed to be.
What’s a typical morning like on the coast for you?
My typical mornings are always spent on the farm, in the gardens. Starting by feeding my ducks & chickens. Then followed by harvesting crops. I am currently in the thick of summer veg, which means cucumbers, zucchinis, cherry tomatoes all have to be harvested daily. Then the summer greens have to be in nice and early before the heat of the Northland sun kicks in. Then I hang my signs, open the gates and the day begins.
Any hidden spots/places of note you’d recommend to visitors?
There is a less walked track that goes from Ngunguru Estuary to Pacific Bay. It is a mix of road walking & coastal tracks that is a beautiful walk. Particularly during the summer with lots of opportunities for a quick dip!
What local event really brings people together?
The local community on the coast is great at putting on so many events that bring together visitors and the core community alike. Recently, I attended Soula Coasta music festival, put on at the Whangarei Deep Sea Anglers Club. It was an amazing summer night of great music and good vibes. Bringing together a large range of people from our community to enjoy great live music close to home!
What shouldn’t someone miss if they only have a day here?
The Poor Knight Islands are a hard thing to pass up if you are here. It is my favourite place in the entire world. No two trips are ever the same. Seeing a marine environment that is so abundant with life is a beautiful example of what our oceans could be. I think it is a must see for everyone.
What’s changed recently – and what do you hope never does?
There has been a population increase of permanent residents looking for a better work, life balance, with more connection to nature. This has been fantastic for building a community year round. The natural environment of the coast is something that I hope never changes. The beauty of the sunrise from the Tutukaka Lighthouse is what will forever make the Tutukaka Coast one of kind.
Where can we find you?
If you are coming to visit the area you can find the farm at 698 Ngunguru Road, Glenbervie
Summer Farm Shop Hours
Monday: Closed
Tuesday | Thursday: 8am-3:30pm
Wednesday | Friday: 8am-5:30pm
Saturday: 8:30am-3pm
Summer Pick your Own Flowers
Thursday, Friday, Saturday
8am-11:30am
Order your veggies for delivery or pick up - join Nadia's Whole Garden Community on Facebook, or email nadiaswholegarden@gmail.com
Thank you, Nadia, for sharing your inspiring work with us and the community.