For the past 18 months Owen Takuira-Ngaropo has worked tirelessly to create something positive for his community.
The Papamoa resident has single-handedly set up a community garden on a plot of land off Hartford Ave.
Mr Takuira-Ngaropo said he knew it was something he needed to do after praying. Since the garden was set up numerous people and community organisations have got involved and are growing their own vegetables.
The community garden attracted the attention of former Papamoa Progressive Association chairman Steve Morris who yesterday brought National MPs Maggie Barry and Tony Ryall to check out the shared space.
The Tauranga City Council allowed Mr Takuira-Ngaropo to use the 0.8ha of land and he has had volunteers helping him build raised beds and irrigation systems.