Celebrate repair and sustainability during the inaugural Repair Festival Aotearoa from 14 to 22 September across New Zealand, hosted by the Repair Network Aotearoa Trust and Repair Café Aotearoa NZ. Supported by Auckland Council and WM New Zealand, this week-long festival highlights the art and science of repair, bringing together skilled artisans, innovators, and community members to foster a culture of reuse and sustainable living.
Throughout the week, a variety of events will take place nationwide. Join local community repair cafés, participate in repair and maintenance workshops led by experts from Stitch Kitchen, Socketman, and others. Explore local businesses like Blunt and Sue Engels, Shoemaker, and attend online panels discussing the Right to Repair and the economic benefits of sustainable practices.
With the anticipated introduction of a Right to Repair Bill in Parliament, New Zealanders will soon gain better access to manuals, tools, and parts for fixing their belongings. This landmark legislation promises a more sustainable and consumer-friendly future.
As the first-ever Repair Festival in Aotearoa, this event will inspire community engagement and environmental responsibility. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn new skills, connect with like-minded individuals and businesses, and discover innovative repair techniques.
Brigitte Sistig, the festival organizer and founder of the Repair Network Aotearoa Trust, emphasizes that repair has a rich tradition in New Zealand. “Repair brings people together, offers opportunities to learn skills, and provides insights into product design,” she says. Sistig also points out the frustrations many face when trying to repair items. The Repair Festival aims to raise awareness about the Right to Repair and advocate for free access to manuals, tools, and spare parts.
“Repair Festival Aotearoa is committed to promoting a more sustainable future by encouraging people to repair rather than replace,” Sistig explains. “By participating in this inaugural event, you can help shape a new culture of repair and contribute to a more resilient Aotearoa.”
Join us in building a sustainable future and discover the joy of repair at the Repair Festival Aotearoa!
