Habitat for Humanity Nelson is reshaping its ReStore in Tāhunanui, adding a new playground and reworking its in-store café to make the space more practical for families.
The changes are part of a broader set of renovations, due to be completed in the coming weeks, focused on improving how customers use the store.
Chief executive Katrina Bach says the aim was to create a place where people can spend more time, whether they are shopping, relaxing or bringing their children along.
“We wanted to have a nice space for customers to be indoors and outdoors, so we’ve refreshed the indoor seating area, which will be open in the next few weeks. And then, outdoors, we’ve set up a safe play area for children.”
The fenced and secure playground officially opened on 21 April, although it has already seen steady use.
“As soon as we opened it up, we had some kids running out there,” Katrina says. “We’re hoping that will be a nice addition for our customers.”
The idea was driven by a gap in the local area.
“In Tāhunanui there are not that many places where you can shop, eat, and have your children play safely.”
Alongside the playground, the café has been reworked to make it more visible and accessible within the store.
“We just found that it was underutilised. Some people didn’t even notice that we had a café because of the orientation of it. Now it’s quite obvious when you walk into the store.”
The playground equipment was funded by NBS, which Katrina says reflects the importance of external support to Habitat’s work.
“These community partnerships are so critical for our ability to keep doing what we do.”
Funds raised through the ReStore and DIY Shed contribute directly to providing affordable housing for local families.
