Glen Eden Pataka Kai Trust | Food for the Community

Our Story

The Glen Eden Pataka Kai Trust was born from a simple observation: too many of our neighbors were struggling to put food on the table, while perfectly good food was being thrown away.

Inspired by the traditional Māori concept of pātaka kai (food storehouse) and the grassroots Pātaka Kai movement sweeping across Aotearoa New Zealand, our community came together to create a solution that honors dignity, builds connection, and fights both hunger and waste.

Located at 208 West Coast Road, Auckland, we operate as more than just a food bank - we're a community hub where neighbors help neighbors, strangers become friends, and everyone has a role to play.

The Pātaka Kai Philosophy

Rooted in Māori values of manaakitanga and aroha

Manaakitanga (Hospitality & Kindness)

We treat everyone with warmth, respect, and generosity. Our pantry is a place of welcome, not charity. There are no forms to fill out, no questions asked, and no judgment passed.

Whanaungatanga (Connection)

Food brings people together. Our pātaka kai strengthens community bonds, turning strangers into neighbors and creating a network of mutual support.

Mana (Dignity & Respect)

We uphold the mana of every person. Accessing food should never be humiliating. Our model ensures everyone can take what they need with their head held high.

Kaitiakitanga (Guardianship)

We are guardians of our community's wellbeing and our environment. By rescuing food from waste, we care for both people and planet.

How Our Pātaka Kai Works

Take What You Need

If you need food, simply visit our pantry at 208 West Coast Road and take what you need. No registration, no referral, no questions.

Leave What You Can

If you have extra food to share, drop it off anytime. Every contribution helps keep our shelves stocked.

Community Care

Our volunteers (kaitiaki) regularly check and restock the pantry, ensuring food is fresh and the space is welcoming.

Zero Waste

We partner with local businesses to rescue surplus food, preventing waste while feeding our community.

Our Core Values

The principles that guide everything we do

Compassion

We serve everyone with empathy, kindness, and without judgment.

Sustainability

We reduce food waste by rescuing quality surplus food from landfills.

Community

We build strength, resilience, and connection through sharing.

Integrity

We operate with transparency, accountability, and honesty.

Registered Charitable Trust

The Glen Eden Pataka Kai Trust is a registered charity with Charities Services New Zealand.

Registry ID: CC63876

We operate with full transparency and accountability to our community and donors.

About Us