Get that old sewing machine repaired
The second Upper Hutt Repair Cafe, the seed of which was planted on Neighbourly last October, is on this Saturday at the Wesley Centre.
The idea has grown from a discussion on Neighbourly to become a fully registered charity with more than 60 volunteers.
The aim is to encourage people to repair items, rather than replacing them.
“Our focus is to educate, popularise repair over replace and divert usable goods from landfill by teaching repair skills in the community through our events," says organiser Lisa Crawford.
On Saturday you will be able to get a coffee from a barista, as well as getting items fixed.
“This Saturday we are planning on the Repair Cafe being twice as big as the first and we are featuring Sewing Machine and Jewellery Repair in addition to our usual repairs.
What you will find at the Upper Hutt Repair Cafe.
- Featuring Sewing Machine and Jewellery Repair (in addition to electrical, mechanical, sewing, bike repair).
- Learn a skill- make a boomerang bag, upcycled cushion cover, kids pyjamas, bunting- using repurposed fabric samples and waste fabrics from our community. Everything provided, all free, no prior experience needed.
- Recycle unfixable goods on-site with Earthlink.
- Earthlink Kids will feature and sell their sustainable kids clothing collection (made from ex-corporate uniforms).
- In partnership with Food 4 Thought, will be collecting donations of small hand/garden tools for upcoming Upper Hutt Tool Library.
Poll: 🤖 What skills do you think give a CV the ultimate edge in a robot-filled workplace?
The Reserve Bank has shared some pretty blunt advice: there’s no such thing as a “safe” job anymore 🛟😑
Robots are stepping into repetitive roles in factories, plants and warehouses. AI is taking care of the admin tasks that once filled many mid-level office jobs.
We want to know: As the world evolves, what skills do you think give a CV the ultimate edge in a robot-filled workplace?
Want to read more? The Press has you covered!
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53.9% Human-centred experience and communication
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14.4% Critical thinking
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29.1% Resilience and adaptability
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2.6% Other - I will share below!
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Once again, Resene and NZ Gardener are on the hunt for New Zealand’s best shed! Send in the photos and the stories behind your man caves, she sheds, clever upcycled spaces, potty potting sheds and colourful chicken coops. The Resene Shed of the Year 2026 winner receives $1000 Resene ColorShop voucher, a $908 large Vegepod Starter Pack and a one-year subscription to NZ Gardener. To enter, tell us in writing (no more than 500 words) why your garden shed is New Zealand’s best, and send up to five high-quality photos by email to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz. Entries close February 23, 2026.
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