We’re incredibly fortunate to be working with a huge number of small and large businesses all through Australia and New Zealand, and we love shining a light on what they’re all about!
Harbour Co-op in Lyttleton (Christchurch) is a community-owned co-operative owned by 215 households, employees, and 3 institutional purchaser organisations – all working together to support local, organic, fair trade, and wholefoods producers. They are passionate about great quality food, waste reduction and supporting a sustainable future.
This model doesn’t only serve the collective of owners, but also the consumers! The low-profit policy means mark-up on organic food is kept to a minimum and the bulk sale of many of their goods not only to reduces cost, but also encourages recycling of containers and reducing waste.
We caught up with one of the communal owners of Harbour Coop to find out more about them, let’s see what they said!
Tell us a little about yourself, your business and how you got into starting your shop.
The Harbour Co-op has gone through many transformations over many years while keeping the core identity of providing the local and wider community with organic wholefoods and New-Zealand-made products. Before the Canterbury earthquakes the Co-op was Lyttel Piko, and post earthquake the Lyttelton community stepped up and supported us via a membership system.
What do you love most about working for your business?
We all love being involved in our community and providing a space that celebrates what is good for our bodies and the planet.
Any favourite anecdotes from customers or working at your shop?
We still have volunteers and members involved who go way back. Juliet Adams, who you’ll also find at the LIFT Library, is our star volunteer who has been with the Co-op right from the beginning in 2012.
How do you go about choosing what products to stock?
Our main priorities are organic and also as local as possible. We will often choose a spray-free local option over something certified organic but with a lot of transportation. It’s all about keeping a balance.
Name one your favourite past times in your area?
In summer, taking a dip in one of the bays is lovely, in winter finding a bit of sun or a toasty fire is priority. Browsing our local libraries is also a great, cost-free option on a rainy day.
Any other small businesses you’d like to recommend in your area?
Sherpa Kai is a hidden gem- out of this world Nepalese food in a cozy space, or outdoor seating in summer. But we are lucky in that anywhere you choose in Lyttelton there will be good food, local shopping and good vibes.
Anyone can shop at the Harbour Co-op (and grab a Crafty Weka Bar there), although to take advantage of the owner benefits, a share needs to be purchased to become an owner. To join the community, you can become a member or volunteer your time or expertise. For volunteering please send them an email – shop@harbourcoop.co.nz
