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An op shop opening in Mangawhai Heads on October 14 will help fund community projects.
The Mangawhai Opportunity Factory will be located behind the Mangawhai Heads Service Station in Wood Street.
Trustee Ken Rayward says money raised at the op shop will be distributed every six months.
“The process will be transparent and we will be supporting applications that will enhance the community the most,” Ken says.
“We are expecting to raise hundreds of thousands of dollars in the first couple of years.”
The space, which is about the size of a tennis court, will also be used for groups as a base for events.
“We can have things like Mangawhai Walking Weekends doing registrations in part of the shop or showcasing what they offer.”
The shop set-up cost is being covered by a not-for-profit trust, chaired by Roger Hill, secretary Brett Denize, and trustees Margie Murray, Denise Davies and Ken Rayward.
The landlord has agreed to donate 25 per cent of the rent on the building to the scheme.
Ken also sees donations as being a large source of income.
“Once the shop is up and running, and people can see its impact, I think they will be generous in backing it financially.”
Around 25 volunteers will run the shop on a roster.
Denise, Margie and Melane Quigley came up with the idea of the shop after seeing the success of the
Mangawhai Fire Station garage sale last year. Ken says there has already been good support with people donating items for sale.
“I’ve already filled my garage with donations from friends, but we want as much stock as we possibly can.”
To donate goods or volunteer for the shop, contact Melane on 021 213 6660
