Here's how we'll get your project set up and ready for our amazing gifters to start signing up.
Before you start creating projects that the whole community can see, we want you to feel completely confident with our platform. We created a practice site where you can learn, experiment, and get comfortable without any pressure.
Our practice environment is at: stage.kohatree.co.nz
This is completely separate from our main site (kohatree.co.nz), so nothing you do here will be visible to the public—it's just for you and other coordinators to practice.
Step 1: Site Access First
You'll need the general site password:
Username: koha
Password: testing321
Step 2: Create Your Practice Account
Once you're on the test site, you'll need to sign up as a user with your own details. Use the same email you'll use for your real coordinator account—this makes it easier to keep track of everything.
Step 3: Becoming a Practice Organiser
After you've signed up, email us to let us know you're ready to become an organiser on the test site. We'll upgrade your account so you can start creating practice projects. You'll get a confirmation email when this is done.
Test Site (stage.kohatree.co.nz):
Safe space for learning and practicing
Only coordinators and our team can see what you create
Perfect for trying new ideas without consequences
All the same features as the live site
Live Site (kohatree.co.nz):
Where real projects happen
Visible to the entire community
Where actual gifts get coordinated and delivered
Where you'll work once you're confident
During your time on the test site, you'll:
Create several practice projects from start to finish
Upload test koha sheets (we provide these)
Experience the platform from both organiser and gifter perspectives
Practice writing project descriptions and communications
Learn to navigate all the features you'll need
"I can't find the login area" Look for the login button in the top right corner of the site.
"The site password isn't working" Make sure you're on stage.kohatree.co.nz (not the main site) and that you're using koha/testing321 exactly as written.
"I signed up but can't create projects" You need to email us first so we can make you an organiser on the test site. This is a safety feature to keep the practice space tidy.
"I'm getting confused between test and live sites" This is totally normal! Always check the URL - if it says "stage" you're practicing, if it doesn't, you're on the live site.
Take your time - There's no rush. Better to be confident than hurried.
Try everything - Click around, explore features, see what happens when you do different things.
Make mistakes - This is the perfect place to learn what doesn't work.
Ask questions - We're here to help you succeed.
You'll know you're ready when:
Creating a project feels straightforward
You understand both organiser and gifter experiences
You can troubleshoot common issues
You feel excited (not nervous) about managing a real project
Once you're comfortable, let me know and I’ll help you transition to the live site where your real community impact begins.
