Over the weekend, the Katikati Resource Recovery Centre received two tonnes of items, including five washing machines, six box freezers, a ride-on lawn mower, and a retro lounge suite. The centre saw about 460 vehicles pass through its gates between 9am and 4pm, according to Chrome Collective manager Sharaine Steenberg. The goal of this trial was to assess the viability of the project and to see how many people would bring in items. Once the results are evaluated, the centre will decide whether to open a retail facility on-site.
This trial is part of a circular economy project aimed at promoting recycling and reuse in the Western Bay. Steenberg noted that there is currently no resource recovery centre in the Western Bay or Tauranga, and the turnout for the trial was very positive.
The items donated included 12 computer screens and plasma-type monitors, TV screens, stereos, tools, and a retro lounge suite. Steenberg mentioned that many people from the elderly community of Katikati brought in tools they no longer needed. She also mentioned that items considered as junk by some could be valuable to others.
The centre is looking to set up more pop-up centres and is inviting volunteers to help. The Chrome Collective, which manages the centre, aims to provide long-term employment opportunities for people with disabilities and to integrate them into the wider community. Anyone interested in volunteering or learning more about the project can email Sharaine Steenberg at sharaine@cultivateculture.co.nz.
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