The Collective offers a fun, eclectic range of pre-loved furniture, clothing, home décor and objects of desire that are good for the environment, and the mind. Verve caught up with them to chat about how it started and what one can expect from their shopping experience.
The Collective is a very special retail experience. What do you feel are your points of difference?
We provide a more conscious way to shop, allowing customers to ‘shop with intention’ but also support something bigger by reducing the impact of mental health in our families, our communities, and in Aotearoa. Our space is creative and inclusive, and our products carefully curated to ensure there is some pre-loved joyfulness for everyone!
You support the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand in a very meaningful way. Why were you inspired to do this?
I’ve always struggled ‘quietly’ with anxiety and in 2009 after the birth of my daughter, I experienced post-natal depression. Coming out the other end of this taught me that something needed to change. That meant embracing vulnerability, being okay with the ‘uncomfortable’ feelings and to stop being quiet about the things that matter. So, I told my story and started The Collective in the hope it could inspire others to do the same. It is my belief that sharing our stories builds community – and hope.
What might one find at The Collective, and how do you source these items?
We’re fortunate to have some of our items donated, but we also buy from a number of sources as well. Our range is totally eclectic. You’ll find mid-century, vintage, contemporary, art deco, and Pacifica. We love and appreciate all aesthetics!
Recycling and repurposing are a must-do these days. Fortunately, it is fun and creative too. Would you agree?
Yes! We are ridiculously passionate about all things recycled and upcycled, living sustainably, and conscious buying. We love nothing better than breathing life back into unwanted pieces to nurture a brighter future for our community.
What can one look forward to if they volunteer at The Collective?
Working with the best team ever, free therapy, helping to build community — and hope. Our small team of volunteers is our backbone but we need more of them! Volunteering with us doesn’t just have to be in-store, although we love that too! We also need people who can help with graphic design, marketing, social media, PR, sign writing… you name it, we need it!
How can our readers support The Collective?
We always appreciate good quality donations of clothing, accessories, home décor and furniture. If it’s quirky and imperfect, we’ll love it even more!
Anything else you would like to add?
Grab a friend or two and come and visit us, we’d love to see you!
50% of our profits go to The Mental Health Foundation NZ
