Repair Café at Onewa Christian Community
By Cathy Fraser, Onewa Christian Community.
Repair Cafés began in the Netherlands in 2009 and came to New Zealand in 2013. They’re now a nationwide movement, aiming to repair devices, bikes, clothing etc. so that they last for longer. Reducing our textile and electronic waste is a great way to reduce our carbon footprint (and save money!).
Onewa Christian Community in Birkenhead hosts Repair Cafés 3-4 times a year, in conjunction with Highbury House, the Birkenhead Community Centre. Birkenhead Community Centre writes “We started our Repair Café 5 years ago because we weren’t happy with how hard and expensive it is to fix items resulting in people throwing them out just to replace with a cheaper item. All of our volunteers have been on our journey from the beginning. We have 3 electricians, 2 general repair guys, 3 sewers, a jeweller and a bike repairer. Volunteers have fixed shoes, irons, toasters, chairs, necklaces and so much more.” They enjoy the camaraderie and great atmosphere when mixing with the public. Most of the volunteers come back time and time again.
Repairs are free but a koha is accepted for the morning tea, the proceeds of which are given to De Paul House in Northcote. Onewa Christian Community provides the venue, morning tea for repairers and visitors alike, and crafts are on hand for the children of people waiting for their repair to be completed. The number of items repaired is usually about 70. These events are always an enjoyable time as people are happy to stop and chat over the delicious morning tea. Sometimes there is an advisor from a local community group e.g. CAB, Pest Free Kaipātiki, and at the last one a 3D printer on display.
Anyone is welcome to come along to the Repair Café. The dates are on the Onewa Christian Community website (onewacc.org.nz) and facebook pages, and in Highbury House’s newsletter. If you can volunteer repair skills, contact Highbury House (admin@highburyhouse.org.nz).
