About NexGen Kai
Operating at the intersection of education, sustainability, and community empowerment.
Our Kaupapa
NexGen Kai delivers aquaponics programmes that transform how young people learn about and engage with food production. Our model integrates tikanga Māori and local knowledge systems, recognizing that sustainable food education must be grounded in cultural practices and community values.
We provide complete support—from initial system design through installation, staff training, curriculum development, and ongoing technical mentoring—to ensure schools and communities can operate successful, self-sustaining aquaponics systems.
Meet our Team
Marika - Education Manager
Kia ora, my name is Marika. I'm the Education Manager for NexGen Kai, and I'm really excited for what's to come!
I'm a māmā to two beautiful boys and a wife to a wonderful husband. I grew up on the West Coast and moved over to Canterbury about 11 years ago. I have a passion for sustainability and food security, and incorporating tikanga Māori and mahinga kai principles into our daily living.
I've worked in the outdoors for over five years, and gained a Bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences with an endorsement in Ecology. I also have two certificates in tikanga Māori gained through Te Wānanga o Aotearoa.
I'm really looking forward to working with you all, and establishing a solid foundation of knowledge for our rangatahi and wider communities through our Aquaponics Education Programme.
Mā te wā - I'll see you in time
Ngā mihi nui
Marika
Addressing Critical Challenges
Our work builds capacity for climate-resilient local food systems while tackling key environmental and social issues facing Aotearoa.
Aquaponics uses 95-99% less water than traditional agriculture.
Our soilless systems provide an alternative to conventional farming.
We empower communities to grow their own fresh, local produce.
We provide hands-on, practical STEM learning for communities.
- Legal Name: NexGen Kai
- Registration Number: CC61191
- NZBN Number: 9429050989379
- Status: Registered