Sustainable living and simple actions in daily life that over time have a positive impact on the environment are the focus of the locally-led Eco Festival in Albert-Eden and Puketāpapa.
From composting techniques to learning how to maintain and fix bicycles, the festival brings together diverse organisations and their work into focus. In bringing together locally-led initiatives and showcasing their mahi in the community, the organisers Community Collective NZ hope to get people thinking about local solutions and climate actions.
The festival is funded by the Albert-Eden and the Puketāpapa local boards.
“We can all help to take climate action, and it’s really heartening to be able to spotlight so many wonderful local initiatives and share the Kaupapa,” says Puketāpapa Local Board Chair Julie Fairey.
There are more than 50 individual events during the month of March. There is something for everyone.
“A positive impact on the planet benefits us all. So, making it easier to adopt sustainable lifestyles, sharing knowledge and collaborating, is sure to make a difference. I’m glad we are able to make this possible at the local level,” says Albert-Eden Local Board Chair Lee Corrick.
Check out a selection of events and activities:
What: Beamafilm Film Series hosted by Mt Roskill, Pt Chev, Mt Albert and Epsom Library
When and Where: Tuesday 1, Monday 7, Thursday 10, Monday 14, Sunday 27 March
Online
Watch along at home at 6pm through Beamafilm and discuss it online. A selection of Climate Change Maker films such as 2040, Seed and A Simpler Way.
What: Craft! The Slow Activists’ Gathering
When and Where: Thursday 3 March 10am-12pm
Gribblehirst Community Hub
Come make, mend, connive and chum with folks who give a damn in a lovely community space. Any project or practice goes so long as it's slow and resists a societal or environmental ill or contributes to the greater good in some way or another.
No skills required, just willingness.
What: Roskill Bike Kitchen
When and Where: Thursday 3, 5.30-7.30pm, Saturday 12, 7.30-9.30am, Thursday 17, 5.30-7.30pm. 142 May Road, Mt Roskill
When and Where: Wednesday 9, 5.30-7.30pm, Saturday 26 March, 10am-12pm
Wesley Community Centre
Recover and fix unwanted bicycles, work alongside and learn from our mechanics fixing your bike or donate a bike you no longer need.
What: Songwriters 4 Climate Action: 15 Songs that Changed the World hosted by Holding Space Aotearoa
When and Where: Monday 7 March 6-8pm
Online
Join local musician Ema Barton with special guests on a listening journey; breaking down and discussing some iconic ‘Songs That Changed The World’ and what it is about them that had such a huge impact on a particular generation / culture / time in history.
What: Food Forests and Community Gardens: Local Food and Stronger Communities
When and Where: Wednesday 9 March, 7 - 8.45pm
Online
Ever wanted to start a food initiative in your neighbourhood? Join Rowan Cant from Tā Tātou Māra Ka, a new food forest in Waikowhai and Heather Lyall from the Ōwairaka Park Orchard and Eco Neighbourhoods to find out everything you need to know. This will be an interactive workshop with lots of time for questions and discussion.
What: Knit Climate Change Data hosted by Community String Knitting Adventures
When and Where: Saturday 12 March 12.30-2.30pm
Owairaka Community Hub
Hands-on workshop for knitters and crocheters, to knit a dishcloth or bookmark using climate change data. While you knit or crochet, there'll be a discussion of how other knitters and crocheters have used their craft to interpret climate and related data. Participants will receive a kit with all materials needed and some inspiration for future projects.
What: Withiel-Thomas Reserve Guided Walk hosted by Urban Ark - Manawa Taiao
When and Where: Saturday 19 March, 10am
5 Withiel Dr, Epsom
Join rock forest expert and local historian Sel Arbuckle for a guided walk through one of Auckland's most unique ecosystems
What: Your Local - A Food Garden Tour of Your Neighbourhood hosted by Gardens for Health
When and Where: Wednesday 23 March, 10am-2pm
Start 10am at the amazing Grow Space Morningside Organic Market Garde at Eden Park Gate L, Sandringham Road, Morningside
11am Homestead Community Garden Pt Chevalier
12 noon Ōwairaka Eco Neighbourhood Orchard and Herb Garden
1.30pm Baghcha Womens Garden
A guided tour of 4 local community-based food initiatives, come to all or just a couple. Bike, skate or run to meet at each garden, (or bus / drive).
To participate and for other events go to their facebook page here.
