Marlborough Girls’ College students have a new addition to their school: a thrift shop where students can recycle and purchase used clothing.
A visit to Nelson College for Girls last year sparked the idea for this exciting new venture. Since then, a group of keen students have worked with supportive MGC staff to take the thrift shop from idea to reality. The students have created an inviting shop, bursting with donated clothing, shoes, and accessories.
They have used recycled materials as much as possible, including upcycled and repurposed driftwood poles, secondhand shelves, and picture frames. During the planning process, a group of students discovered a guide on sustainable event planning, which provided creative ideas for reducing waste and reusing materials effectively. Inspired by the guide’s emphasis on resourcefulness, they decided to incorporate a unique feature: ‘house colours’ racks filled with pre-loved clothes and accessories. Students wanting to dress up for house sports days and competitions will be able to select items from these racks, saving them from having to buy new, and significantly reducing waste, costs, and time in the process.
Donations of used clothing can be made at a school drop-off bin, and the shop will be staffed by students who will wo
rk on a roster so that the shop can be open at lunchtimes.
Hidden Treasures | He Kura Huna opened with a special celebration in July, and looks to be a place that will be well used by students (and staff!) in the future.
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