On behalf of Regen to Market, one of the major sponsors, I am thrilled to share news about the inaugural UNDERGROUND festival, which will be held this February 2025 at Greystone, North Canterbury.
This groundbreaking event, inspired by the UK’s renowned Groundswell Festival, is New Zealand’s first festival celebrating the interconnected worlds of soil, food, and regenerative farming.
As someone deeply committed to farming and regenerative agriculture, I believe this is a moment we’ve all been waiting for—a chance to connect, learn, and celebrate the incredible work happening across Aotearoa and beyond.
I’ll be speaking alongside 30+ experts from around the world, and we will come together to share our vision for a healthier, more sustainable future.
Here’s why you don’t want to miss it.
What makes UNDERGROUND so unique?
UNDERGROUND is more than just a festival—it’s a transformative gathering of passionate minds and hearts united by a shared commitment to reimagining how we work with the land. Over the course of two action-packed days, here’s what you can expect:
Inspiring Talks: Gain insights from 30+ incredible speakers, both local and international, as they dive into topics like regenerative food systems, agroforestry, pasture and grazing management, soil microbiology, and the connection between soil health, food and human well-being.
Field Safaris: Experience the field on diverse pastures, compost, and drought resilience and deepen your understanding of soil microbiology through guided field walks.
Incredible Kai: Prepared by fire and earth, it is sourced locally from organic, regenerative producers. Pair it with Greystone Wines and Brew Moon beer for a true feast of flavours.
Vibrant Market Stalls: Explore an array of stalls showcasing innovative businesses dedicated to nurturing life underground and supporting sustainable practices.
Regen To Market Closing Feast: Every ticket includes a seat at the much-anticipated closing feast on the final day. Join us at 1 PM to wrap up the festival with a shared meal, new friendships, and plenty of inspiration to take home.
This isn’t just an event; it’s a celebration of soil, food, and farming—complete with community spirit and opportunities to collaborate with like-minded people. Come ready to learn, share, and immerse yourself in the future of regenerative agriculture!
Why I’m excited to speak at UNDERGROUND
As the founder of Ata Regenerative and a veterinarian with a specialist focus on farm production systems, reproduction, and ruminant nutrition, I’m dedicated to driving transformational change in New Zealand agriculture. My mission is to help farmers transition to systems that deliver greater health and resilience—not just for farmers and their communities but also for the environment, people, and animals.
I’ve experienced firsthand the incredible power of soil to transform more than just our farms. Healthy soil can strengthen ecosystems and connect communities. At the UNDERGROUND festival, I’ll share insights on how regenerative practices can create thriving landscapes while supporting food systems that truly work in harmony with nature.
In collaboration with Regen to Market, I’ll also explore practical ways for farmers to build meaningful connections with consumers who value sustainability and transparency. To end the festival on a high note, the closing feast—proudly sponsored by Regen to Market—will be a celebration of our shared vision.
It’s a chance for farmers, growers, and advocates to come together, share stories, and find solutions that will shape a healthier, more resilient future.
View the extraordinary lineup of speakers here.
Mark your calendar: Event details
🗓 Dates: 19–20 February 2025
📍 Location: Greystone, North Canterbury (50 mins drive north of Ōtautahi Christchurch.)
🎟 Tickets: Secure your spot now HERE.
Don’t wait, as spaces are limited!
Let’s shape the future together
UNDERGROUND isn’t just about learning; it’s about action. Their mission is to connect people with ways to grow food in harmony with nature and papatūānuku, hoping that they will feel inspired to change how they grow, shop and eat.
It’s a call to farmers, growers, and anyone who cares about the future of food and farming to come together and lead the change.
It is a privilege to be associated with this inaugural event. I want to thank the organisers—Fran, Angela, EB, and many others—for bringing this to our local soil. It is a big undertaking, and they have done a fantastic job.
Join me, the Regen to Market team, and the food and farming legends at this unmissable event. Together, we’ll celebrate the power of soil and the potential of regenerative agriculture to create a better future for us all.
Ready to be part of the movement? Grab your tickets today, and I’ll see you at the first-ever UNDERGROUND festival in New Zealand!