Each year on April 22, people around the globe come together for World Earth Day – a movement that began in 1970 to raise awareness of environmental challenges and to inspire positive action for the planet.
Now more than five decades strong, Earth Day is a reminder that we all have a role to play in caring for the world we call home. This year’s global theme, “Planet vs. Plastics”, underscores the urgent need to reduce plastic pollution and protect both human health and biodiversity.
Here in Aotearoa, one inspiring story that shines especially bright this Earth Day is that of Jeannie Hayden, recipient of the 2025 Wild Hero Award from the Wild Dunedin NZ Festival of Nature.
Jeannie has long been a powerhouse in environmental education and advocacy. From her decades behind the scenes at NHNZ as a production manager on beloved shows like Wildtrack, to her hands-in-the-soil work restoring biodiversity on her and husband Peter Hayden’s 50-acre Fat Weka Farm on the Otago Peninsula, her commitment to nature runs deep. The farm operates with permaculture principles, focused on native tree planting, rewilding and regenerative food growing – and it’s become a beacon for those wanting to reconnect with the land.
Described as the “heart of Wild Dunedin,” Jeannie has poured passion and purpose into the festival since its early days. Although this is the first year she’s not leading the charge, her presence and influence continue to be felt – and celebrated. Fellow festival organiser Suzanne Middleton sums it up beautifully: “Jeannie is passionate about sustainability and biodiversity, constantly fighting for what’s right. She’s been the driver of many innovative and creative events and concepts.”
Even post-festival, Jeannie’s not slowing down. She’s busy growing herbs and fruit, and helping to shape the gardens around Augustines of Portobello, a farmstore and kitchen recently opened by her son Gus on their land — blending hospitality with harmony in nature.
The Wild Dunedin NZ Festival of Nature itself is another wonderful reason to celebrate Earth Day. Running from April 10 through to April 22, the 2025 festival marks 10 years of connecting people to nature with over 150 events this year alone. From wildlife encounters and eco-workshops to the vibrant NatureDome community day featuring Anika Moa and Suzy Cato, the festival continues to nurture a deeper love for our environment in people of all ages.
As we reflect on Earth Day 2025, stories like Jeannie’s remind us that environmental action isn’t just about grand gestures – it’s in the everyday acts of restoration, education and care. Whether you plant a tree, reduce your waste or simply spend time outside appreciating the natural world, it all makes a difference.
Celebrate Earth Day with purpose. And if you’re in Ōtepoti, don’t miss the final events of Wild Dunedin – a festival as wild, wonderful and full of life as the ecosystems it honours.
