Eco-friendly stores for Northlanders

Tracey Deane (Tuatara Gallery) with EcoShop manager Monique Portegys at the store opening in Whangarei.

Recycling, upcycling and items to help Northlanders tread lighter on the planet - that is what lies within the new EcoShops in Whangarei and Kaitaia, which opened last week.

Based within the two existing Community Business and Environment Centres (CBEC) in the region, the EcoShops will carry a range of solutions for dealing with household food waste, as well as biodegradable replacements for everyday plastic items such as toothbrushes and pegs.

Paul Willoughby (left) and Joanna Davidson of North Tec.

EcoSolutions has been based in Northland for more than 15 years, delivering environmental education and projects within schools, businesses and the community.

EcoShop manager Monique Portegys said the vision was to give people the tools, support and inspiration to be kind to the environment.

Councillor Tricia Cutforth has a light bulb moment.

She hoped the EcoShop would help inspire people to look at waste differently as the stores have examples of upcycling, from wallpaper sample walls to pallet furniture, on display.

Customers can also recycle e-waste and CFL lightbulbs, receive advice on how to compost, get advice on greener living or arrange a quote to get a house insulated at the shops.

Rowan and Sean Stanley.

"We can take you on a journey towards a greater level of sustainability," she said.

The stores are based at 3 Bank St, Whangarei and 190 Pukepoto Rd, Kaitaia.

For more information, check out ecosolutions.org.nz.

Whangarei District Council chief executive Rob Furlong (left) and Joe Camuso.