Who We Are

Dani and Nelson Lebo are leaders in New Zealand’s permaculture movement. They have a shared passion for building community, education, and sustainability.

At Kaitiaki Farm, a 5 hectare property in Whanganui, New Zealand, the Lebo family run a mixed-use farm and encourage learning for folks of all ages. Their learning farm is a premier example of permaculture design in action.

Their suburban permaculture project – Eco-Thrifty Renovation – is recognised as one of Australasia’s best examples of suburban permaculture and is featured in David Holmgren's book Retrosuburbia.

Originally from the U.S., Dani and Nelson met while teaching in New Hampshire, and have lived in New Zealand since 2008.

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'da Kids

 Verti :
"I am Verti and I am 8. I like to play outside in our backyard. I like our goats, and I help milk them. I like to eat broccoli and strawberries and blueberries."

Manu:
"I am Suleiman Manu Lebo. I like dubba doo doos (trains). I like dumping (jumping). I eat yogurt and baberries (strawberries). Boy is my dog. Him says woof woof woof."

Topher: 
"My Tophey. Boy my dog. Come here Boy! My like goats. My like running fast goats. My like drink milk babbas (bottles)"

Nelson

Nelson is a lover of old tools and wayward animals. His favourites are scythes and muscvovy ducks. He holds a PhD from Waikato University in Science Education and an M.A. from Lesley College in Environmental Teaching and Learning. 

Nelson is recognised as an expert in home design and renovation in New Zealand and is regularly consulted by the media on these issues. He currently works as the ECO Design Advisor for Palmerston North City Council. 

Dani

Dani is passionate about equality, creativity, and fun. She is a crafty nature-playing mama, trying to raise resilient, gentle, and generous kids. She holds an M.A. in International Education from The School for International Training, a Graduate Diploma of Primary Teaching from Massey University, speaks fluent Spanish, and studies Te Reo Maori.

Currently, Dani runs The ECO School's Nature Play programs, and has spent her career as a classroom teacher and outdoor educator.