Ben is an avid gardener who has studied horticulture. He holds a Level 3 National Certificate in Horticulture.

Ben has a close relationship with the Woodside Community Garden and the Ranui Community Garden. He has volunteered work and also conducted courses and workshops on pruning, grafting and work farming.

He is an active member of the Soil & Health Association where he was a past Field Trip Organizer. He is also as member of the Seed savers and Tree Croppers Associations. He has also been a sporadic contributor to the Organic magazine.