Cover Story: Waihi an op shop mecca

TONY MITCHELL: Leaving Pukekohe to start a charity store in Waihi. Photo/MelanieCamoin

Waihi is in an op-shop frenzy, writes Melanie Camoin

Charity Stores have sprung up around town, with the newest - HART (Hauraki Animal Rescue Team) on Seddon St - opening earlier in the week.

Maggie Andreassen said the idea to open a store came after the association had received some good donations.

"We had three garages full of clothes to fill into a shop as well as some donated by friends. We have had excellent support from the community so far," she said.

Items in the store will be similar to other op shops around town. "But no furniture," she said.

HART is the latest addition to the long list of charity shops based in town. Among them are Salvation Army, SPCA, St John and Rags Direct.

Former Aucklander Tony Mitchell opened his recycled clothing store, Rags Direct, two months ago on Martha St after submitting the idea to the owner. He said he sees a need in town.

"It is a more pleasant experience to go op shopping as the majority of the people here are not rich. You see kids running around in rags," he said.

Tony's store is part of six other Auckland-based stores raising funds for IDFNZ (The New Zealand Immune Deficiencies Foundation) and Kids Foundation.

"A lady came this [Friday] morning to ask for some support and I gave her a box of clothes for the kids. That is what it is all about.

"I am not here for the money but for the social aspect of it. I am ecstatic to see people happy when they walk out of the store."

Meanwhile, at HART store, things got busy last week, preparing and cleaning before the official opening last Monday.

Locals Mandy Harborne and Jill Barrett also gave Maggie a hand. Maggie said she hopes to get volunteers on board.

"Having an op shop makes sense as there are so many unwanted clothes everywhere."

HELPING HANDS: Jill Barrett (left) and Mandy Harborne preparing for HART store opening. Photo/Melanie Camoin

Profits from her store will go to HART to assist with the desexing, flee medication and care of cats.

Tony is still getting his merchandise organised in store and settling into the place.
Waihi might well be paradise for charity op shopping. "There is competition in the op shop world. I might have to add further discounts to my $2 jeans," Tony jokes.