What is this workshop
This workshop is a hands-on introduction to the Japanese Kiero soil-based composting system.
Kiero is a simple method for managing household food waste directly in soil. It is designed to be low-cost, low-maintenance, and accessible for people who may not traditionally engage with composting or gardening.
In this workshop, you will learn how to understand, set up, and use a Kiero system in your own home.
This is not a theoretical lecture — it is a practical, real-life approach to reducing food waste at the household level.
Who is it for?
This workshop is designed for:
- People who want to reduce household food waste
- Households without a garden
- People who find traditional compost systems too complex or messy
- Older residents who prefer low-maintenance solutions
- Families wanting to introduce sustainability in a simple way
- Anyone curious about practical permaculture in daily life
No prior experience is needed.
Workshops can be adapted for homes, community groups, or organisations.
▶︎ Please use the contact form below to make an enquiry.
What you will learn
In this workshop, you will learn:
- How the Kiero system works (simple soil-based decomposition process)
- What types of food waste can be used
- How to set up a basic system at home
- How to maintain a system with minimal effort
- Common mistakes and how to avoid them
- How Kiero compares to Bokashi, worm farms, and traditional composting
- How this system can reduce household waste significantly
Why Kiero?
The Kiero system offers a different approach to food waste:
- No electricity required
- No turning or heavy maintenance
- No ongoing consumables
- Minimal odour when used correctly
- Can handle a wide range of food waste (including cooked food, citrus, oils, and small bones)
- Stable soil system (no need to empty compost)
It is especially suited for urban living, small households, and people looking for a simple, realistic solution to food waste.
Workshop format
Workshops are available in three formats:
1. In-person community workshops
Small group sessions in Whanganui or surrounding areas.
2. On-site household workshops
Practical guidance at your home for system setup and use.
3. Online sessions
For people outside Whanganui or those who prefer remote learning.
My background
My name is Mariko Marshall. I am a certified official Kiero advisor, trained in Japan, and based in Whanganui, New Zealand.
I have been using the Kiero system in my own household for over three years, achieving near-zero food waste during this time.
My work focuses on practical permaculture, household-scale sustainability, and real-world waste reduction solutions.
I also share my work and experiences through my blog as part of my broader approach to community education.
Ready to organise a workshop?
This workshop can be adapted for:
- Households
- Community groups
- Schools
Please fill in the form below to discuss a session that suits your needs.and I will get back to you.
- Name
- Location (Whanganui / Online / Other)
- Type of workshop (Online / On-site / Not sure)
- Message
Fees：Workshops are currently offered on a flexible basis
Get in touch using the form above▲