The Wastebusters’ Repair Revolution is coming to town, with a series of repair cafe-style events running throughout Central Otago this spring. 

Wastebusters is looking for volunteer fixers of all kinds to share their skills and experience at the events. 

“We’ll need volunteers to fix household items such as computers, electronics, small appliances, small furniture, clothes, jewellery, books, bikes and more,” Wastebusters event organiser Abbey Lewis said. 

“Whether you’re a pro, or just a handy person, we’d love you to come along and share your repair skills with the community.” 

The free events will run between September and November 2020, in Wanaka, Hāwea, Alexandra and Queenstown, with the first fix-it event running in Wanaka on September 19. 

Anyone can bring their broken treasures to the events, to receive free advice and repairs. If people know that specific parts are required for their repair they should also bring these along. 

Repairers could have skills in repairing clothing, small appliances, electronics or anything else repair-related.

The Repair Revolution receives financial support from the Waste Minimisation Fund.

The project aims to reduce waste by offering an alternative to ‘throwaway culture’, demonstrate how satisfying making repairs can be and model the ‘circular economy’ in action.

“We live in a society that revolves around consumption. Increasingly we buy more items and throw them away at the slightest sign of defect as people do not know how to repair things or where to find the people who do,” Abbey said. “Together, we can change that.”

Wastebusters will have their Repair Revolution tool trailer on site full of equipment for repairers to use. Volunteer fixers can sign up and get more information at the Wastebusters website.

Due to current government guidelines around COVID-19, those who wish to attend must register for the events. To register for free and find more information about the events, visit the Eventbrite website, search for ‘Repair Revolution’ and pick the preferred event location. 

PHOTOS: Wastebusters