Out with the KFC, in with the kumara.

A marae in South Auckland has planted 80,000 kumara, in an effort to help wean people off fast food.

Papatuanuku Kokiri Marae will pass the harvested crop on to families and organisations in the area.

Garden Manager Lionel Hotene said local families are struggling with bills and often good food is down the list of necessities.

"A lot of them can't even afford to pay for good food after they've paid all the rent. So, we're trying to address that."

He said the marae knows it has a role to play in looking after the community's health.

The marae also offers women's Zumba classes and sports programmes.