The Eastern Field is an organically certified heritage seed-saving garden and plant nursery, dedicated to strengthening food security and seed sovereignty in New Zealand. Through gardening education, community connection, and regenerative practices, The Eastern Field supports people to grow nourishing food and foster resilient, self-sufficient communities.

Where it all Began

From truly humble beginnings, The Eastern Field was founded by Jemma Ostenfeld in August 2022. The name Eastern Field is a direct translation of her surname, reflecting a deep and personal connection
to the land that is grounded in respect and reciprocity.

Jemma spent many years travelling across Aotearoa, learning from some of the country’s most respected gardening and horticultural experts, where she gathered invaluable wisdom and hands-on experience
in organic and regenerative growing practices.

Guided by knowledge and a passion for cultivation, Jemma set out to strengthen local food and seed security by establishing a heritage seed garden in the Bay of Plenty. From a small hand-built greenhouse
in the backyard of her WWOOFing host in Rotorua, The Eastern Field has grown into a half-acre garden and nursery in rural Whakatāne, where heritage seeds and seedlings are cultivated, preserved, and
shared with both home and commercial gardeners.

Thanks to strong community support, The Eastern Field thrives as an organically certified seed garden and nursery, inspiring people across the Bay of Plenty to grow edible gardens and protect Aotearoa’s heritage seed lines.

Person holding a gourd bowl of heritage corn seeds

Philosophy

The Eastern Field’s philosophy is centred on honouring the seeds by preserving and strengthening their lineage; respecting the land by giving back more than is taken; and empowering the people by reconnecting them with traditional knowledge and ways of being.

Through these guiding principles, The Eastern Field nurtures a symbiotic partnership with the natural world, where people and plants flourish alongside each other in harmony.

Values

  • Community

    Supporting and inspiring the community to grow edible gardens with quality products and educational resources that connect people to the land and their food.

  • Quality

    Providing premium, in-season products crafted from locally sourced, ethical materials, paired with practical guidance to cultivate thriving edible gardens and gardeners.

  • Reciprocity

    Respecting mother nature by giving back to the land and the people, nurturing a thriving, symbiotic partnership that benefits the whole ecosystem.

  • Reliability

    Delivering a consistent, trustworthy source of heritage seeds and seedlings, helping gardeners grow abundant, productive backyards year after year.