In this article, we explore how Repair Network Aotearoa is scaling up repair for reuse through the new repair co-lab in Tāmaki Makaurau.
Brigitte Sistig integrates grassroots community action with systemic policy reform. As Co-Founder of Repair Network Aotearoa, her work focuses on scaling community repair networks, expanding practical education programmes, and driving circular economy solutions. Grounded in a commitment to honouring Te Tiriti o Waitangi, her initiatives build resilient, low-carbon local economies across Aotearoa. Building the Repair Movement in Aotearoa
Building on the rapid rise and popularity of community-led Repair Cafés all across the
motu, Repair Network Aotearoa (RNA) is scaling up repair and reuse in Tāmaki Makaurau and beyond. In partnership with Auckland Council, RNA opened the first dedicated repair hub in Tāmaki: the repair co-lab. This central space brings community and business together to repair, learn, share, and live a vibrant repair culture that actively grows our circular economy.
Valuing Repair and Overcoming Disconnect
Scaling repair is fundamentally about redefining product value. Linear economic models have long severed our connection to material goods, creating a convenience culture where disposal precedes repair.
Restoration breaks this linear cycle. Opting to repair rather than discard embeds sustainable practice into everyday life and retains material value within local economies. This process relies on technical capability, problem-solving, and civic engagement. By taking direct action to extend product lifespans, individuals actively reduce carbon impact and advance practical climate resilience. This impact multiplies when achieved collectively as an interconnected community operating through a network extending across the region and beyond. Together, we are making repair an easy, accessible choice for Tāmaki Makaurau.
Inside the repair co-lab: A Hub-and-Spoke Model
The repair co-lab operates on an innovative hub-and-spoke model designed for maximum community reach. It uses a two-pronged approach: combining accessible community education with robust business partnerships in repair.
1. The Kingsland Hub (Tāmaki Makaurau):
Located in Kingsland, the co-lab serves as a dynamic base of operations featuring:
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Dedicated Repair Stations: Our central venue houses dedicated repair stations equipped for textile mending, electronics repair, small electrical appliances, and shoe repair - bringing everyday household items back to life.
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Paid & Volunteer Repairers: Hosting a dedicated pool of paid repair experts alongside skilled
volunteers, running targeted repair sessions focused on specific themes and item categories. -
Business & School Site Tours: Guided tours for organisations and schools to see practical circular economy principles in action.
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Zero Waste Venue Rental: Event and meeting space available for businesses and community groups hosting meetings, workshops, or zero-waste events
2. The Spokes & Regional Network
At the heart of the co-lab model is the power of knowledge sharing. True sustainability relies on passing practical skills from hand to hand and community to community:
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Repair Education: Delivering hands-on workshops that teach core repair and product maintenance skills while developing accessible teaching resources. -
Volunteering & Upskilling: Providing structured training, resources, and mentorship for Repair Café volunteers so they can take new skills directly back to their local neighbourhoods.
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Tai Tokerau Outreach (Northland): Supported by a Foundation North grant, we are extending our reach to Repair Cafés in Tai Tokerau, resourcing Northland communities to enhance local repair options and build sustainable repair practices.
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Community Collaboration: Supporting local Repair Cafés, schools, businesses, and Community Recycling Centres (CRCs) to collectively divert e-waste and materials from landfills.
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Academic & Sector Partnerships: Collaborating with universities and industry leaders to share data, research, and best practices that advance repair policy nationwide.
Creating Scalable Impact
This structured model creates a powerful ripple effect. By offering tailored programming for both the education sector and corporate partners, RNA delivers consistent, scalable outcomes across the entire repair network.
The repair co-lab is more than a workshop - it is a proof-of-concept for Aotearoa and an adaptable model drawing interest nationally and internationally. By connecting local action with regional infrastructure, we are turning everyday care into systemic change.
