Nelson's Chin community has broken ground on their long-awaited Chin Gardens located at QEII Reserve, with work commencing on 23 October.

The project represents a significant milestone for the Chin community, who have driven this initiative over many years from vision to reality. Starting with a quiet blessing ceremony led by community leaders and local iwi, the work has marked the beginning of a space that will serve as a place for reflection and connection for all of Nelson, whilst sharing the unique culture of the Chin people.

The Chin community chose to begin modestly, with a blessing to acknowledge the importance of the site and the journey to get here. A larger celebration is planned once the first phase nears completion, expected before Christmas.

The initial work is establishing the essential infrastructure, pathways and rock features that will form the skeleton of the gardens. While the 2.5-metre-wide paths may look unexpectedly prominent at first, they'll come into proportion over time as plantings mature and the garden fills in around them.

The project has secured approximately $110,000 for this first phase, with Council contributing $40,000 and the remainder coming from external funding and community contributions. Future phases will be developed as additional funding becomes available.

Under an 'Adopt a Spot' agreement with Council, the Chin community will take the lead on planting, planning and implementation, ensuring the gardens reflect their cultural preferences. This approach recognises the community's ownership of the project while providing support through the Council framework.