From grassroots beginnings to a trusted pathway for regenerative growers.
Our Story
What began as a grassroots movement to support pollinators and regenerative practice has evolved into a comprehensive educational trust, dedicated to building the skills and confidence of growers across Aotearoa. Shifting how we think about farming, soil health, and our relationship with the land and growing. Earthworkers grew out of For the Love of Bees (2016–2024), carrying forward its values into a structured training pathway.
For The Love Of Bees Founded2016
Started as a passion project focused on bee conservation and sustainable agriculture practices in New Zealand.
First Educational Programs2018
Launched community workshops on pollinator-friendly farming and regenerative agriculture principles.
Expanded Course Offerings2020
Developed comprehensive training programs covering soil health, permaculture design, and sustainable farming systems.
Community Network Growth2022
Built a network of over 300 graduates implementing regenerative practices across New Zealand and beyond.
Entirely Education Focused2025
Earthworkers establishes its own identity, focusing resources and past learnings on education
Advanced Courses Launching2026
Expanding our curriculum to support ongoing professional development
Our Mission
We believe that regenerative agriculture is not just a farming method—it's a pathway to healing our planet, strengthening communities, and creating a sustainable future for generations to come.
Core Team
Meet the passionate educators and practitioners behind Earthworkers.
Daniel Schuurman
Experienced Regenerative Agronomist
Drawing on over 40 years of expertise, Daniel serves as a trusted consultant for a diverse array of commercial growers and farmers throughout New Zealand. His services encompass comprehensive soil analysis, tailored crop programs, and hands-on technical support across a spectrum of agricultural sectors, including fruit, arable, viticulture, ornamentals, and pasture. Daniel's specialisation lies in guiding the transition away from conventional agrochemical-based practices toward biologically regenerative programs grounded in the principles of beneficial microbial activity and optimised nutrition. Through his adept guidance, farmers not only embrace regenerative growing systems but also witness tangible improvements in yields and profitability, marking a pivotal shift towards sustainable agricultural practices.
Sarah Smuts-Kennedy
Founder & Facilitator
Sarah Smuts-Kennedy is the founder of the Charitable Trust For the Love of Bees, OMG urban farm, the Earthworkers educational pathway and the Communities of Regenerative Learning. In 2022 she stepped down from the leadership team, though remained an advisor and facilitator during those years. After a good break she is pleased to be stepping back into continuing the development of Earthworkers and its post course mentoring programmes.
She is an artist, For the Love of Bees began as her artwork in 2014. She has been a practicing biology first regenerative farmer at Maunga Kererū for the past 15 years. In 2020 Sarah received a Commendation for her work at For The Love of Bees, The Sustainability Superstar Award at the Sustainable Business Awards.
Support Our Mission
Interested in supporting our mission to transform agriculture and heal the land? Find out how you can help make a difference in regenerative education and community building.
