New community produce stands are proving popular in the local community, according to the  Food Security Network. 

In recent months the network has launched six produce stands across the Upper Clutha, with the most recent being installed in Luggate (on Hopkins Street) and Lake Hāwea (at the Kanuka Corner childcare centre in Timsfield) last month. 

Four more - at the Wānaka Recreation Centre, Wastebusters, Community Networks, and on Sherwin Avenue in Albert Town (the last in collaboration with the local community association) - have been installed by the network since December, and at least another two community-led stands have been created, at the Sharing Shed in Hāwea Flat and the Lake Hāwea Community Centre.

Food Security Network project manager Daisy Watford told the Wānaka App the produce stands project was going “really well”, with “lots of produce coming and going across all stands”.

Food Security Network members celebrate the opening of the Community Networks produce stand last year. PHOTO: Supplied

The network was formed last July by Community Networks as part of its commitment to food security and food resilience.

The stands have been created for donation and collection of fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as jams and preserves, and eggs and baked goods; they help prevent food waste and provide more options for locals to receive fresh produce. 

Three stands in particular are thriving, Daisy said.

They are the ones located at Wastebusters, Albert Town and the Wānaka Community Hub.

The Wastebusters produce stand, located right at the entrance to the shop, is one of the busiest in the Upper Clutha, Food Security Network project manager Daisy Watford said. PHOTO: Wānaka App

“It would be nice to see a bit more produce at the rec centre stand so if anyone has any excess produce in their garden, just drop it off on your way to the pool,” Daisy said. 

She said it was still early days for the Kanuka Corner stand and the one in Luggate (which will eventually be moved to the new community hall when it opens). 

Daisy said anyone else who wants to build a produce stand should make sure it is on private land and make a plan for managing leftover produce. She recommended the Pataka Kai website for more detailed advice.

The Food Security Group comprises representatives from Community Networks, Wastebusters, QLDC, Food for Love, Grow Wānaka, Kahu Youth,  Hāwea Food Forest, Wānaka Vegetable Grower’s Club and Dr Compost. 

PHOTOS: Wānaka App