New Use and Produce in Community Gardens

High waves or receding oceans are not to blame for the strange sight of a boat in the midst of the New Brighton community gardens. The boat was one of the more unusual items on offer through Waste Exchange, and it was recently installed there as a special feature for the younger residents of the community. 

Garden manager Sue Cobb had utilised resources from Waste Exchange throughout the year she has been working in the gardens. In her previous position at Christchurch City Council she had read Recycling Works and was familiar with the types of items on offer. “There was already some reuse in progress when I started at the gardens” said Sue. “Since then I’ve used Waste Exchange to source tyres and conveyor belts for garden edging, bricks, curtain rods (used as garden stakes), and wooden pallets which have been turned into compost bins. It has been very beneficial to get stuff this way. When I saw the old boat display unit, I thought it would be something fun to add to the gardens.” 

The boat has been filled with sand at one end for use as a children’s sandpit, and the other half has been turned into a rabbit run. A flag pole (also sourced via Waste Exchange) has been dug in and an original flag mounted. 

Anyone living in the local area is welcome to enjoy the gardens, as well as to join in the practical work there and share the produce. “The community garden is especially good for people living on smaller sections, such as retired people, who may not have room on their own property for a garden” Sue said. “People can help out as and when it suits them, and it’s a great way of meeting others and interacting in the local community.”