Hawke’s Bay rangatahi are stepping up to lead climate action and community connection with this year’s Sustainable Spring Swap and Picnic in the Park, happening on Wednesday, 1 October 2025, from 10am – 2pm at Anderson Park, Greenmeadows.

The event is being organised by the Youth Environment Ambassadors with support from the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council (HBRC) Environmental Education team. It is designed to inspire the community to take practical steps towards waste reduction and sustainable living.

Regional Council Environmental Education Community Facilitator Hinerangi Price says:

“Events like this are a powerful way to show that small, local actions can make a big difference. It’s fantastic to see our young people taking the lead and creating opportunities for the community to connect, learn and have fun together.”

Event highlights

Clothing, book & toy swaps – Swap, don’t shop! Bring items in good condition and exchange them for something new-to-you. 1 item in = 1 item out.

Predator-Free Movement – Meet the local legends protecting our wildlife.

Napier Repair Café – Free bike and scooter tune-ups. Ride to the event and get sorted!

Composting Workshop – Learn how to turn food scraps into garden gold.

Hands-on workshops & games – Fun activities for all ages, plus nature play for tamariki.

Participants are encouraged to walk, bike, bus, or scooter to the event and bring along a plastic-free picnic to enjoy in the park.

Ocean Dutta, Youth Environment Ambassador Chair from Hastings Girls’ High School, says,

“This event isn’t just about swapping clothes, it’s about building a culture of sustainability and showing our community that environmental action can be practical, fun and inclusive.”

When: Wednesday, 1 October 2025, 10am – 2pm

Where: Anderson Park, Greenmeadows

The Sustainable Spring Swap is free to attend and open to everyone.

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