Sew far sew good – Repair Café helping build community

“Sewing has always been a big part of my life. I always made my children’s clothes and now that I’m in my 80’s it’s so rewarding to be able to use these skills to help others,’’ Sally explains. “I take pride in my work but what gives me the greatest satisfaction is seeing the smile on people’s faces when the job is finished, and they have something they can wear again. I’m also part of this community and having the Repair Café at Te Mātāwai also means I get to meet my neighbours and learn more about this new way of providing supported social housing for people in need,” Sally says.

The Repair Café was set up in partnership with Doughnut Economics Advocates NZ (DEANZ) to help bring the community together. Tenants and locals bring personal items like clothing, small furniture, and electronics along to be repaired by a team of committed volunteers.

Gloria is one of those volunteers: “I started sewing at the age of eleven as practical skills helped with a tight family budget,’’ she says. “As a retired Home Science teacher, it is a joy to be helpful, keep these skills alive and meet and use my sewing skills to help my neighbours from Te Mātāwai and the local community.”

Te Mātāwai is Kāinga Ora’s first and largest purpose-built single site supported housing complex. Tenants living there have access to 24/7 onsite support. They are empowered to build connections and to participate in their community, and they can access support whenever they need it.

A recent survey of tenants by the Evaluation and Research team found having support onsite was contributing to their improved health and wellbeing. They had a strong sense of belonging and connection and their participation in community activities and clubs was growing.

Community Development Manager Dayne helps organise the Repair Café and is delighted at the difference it is making. “As well as bringing people together, we are also contributing to a better environment. Last year an estimated $10,000 worth of items were repaired and diverted from landfill. An estimated $6,000 was saved in repair costs and an estimated $1,500 worth of items saved with partial repairs. It’s a win-win and everyone involved is looking forward to what 2025 will bring.”