Insights From The Locals
No one knows the best spots, hidden gems, and must dos of a place quite like a local – our pals at Neat Places have enlisted the help of Catherine O’Neill and Lin Klenner of New Brighton Community Gardens to gather their top picks on places to visit at this beachside suburb.
A little Slice Of Paradise - New Brighton Community Garden
136 Shaw Avenue, New Brighton
Established in 2005 and still going strong, The New Brighton Community Garden is an adored place in New Brighton. This special spot provides a sense of community to the locals and brings people together as volunteers that keep the garden thriving. Getting your hands dirty is not only grounding, but a hard day’s work is a great way to connect with others. At the New Brighton Community Gardens, there is a job and space for everyone, regardless of background, skills, or abilities.
Collaborations and Treats at the Local Cafés
7/78 Brighton Mall
Local café, Switch New Brighton, really showcases the community spirit and the benefits of working together through their partnership with The New Brighton Community Gardens. Each week they drop three bins into the community garden with eggshells, green waste and coffee grounds which are then distributed back into the garden. Pop into Switch New Brighton to try one of their delicious salads - and while we’re on the topic of tasty food, the Karma Free Cafe’s tiramisu slice is also addictive!
Check Out A New Space For Curiosities (And Sauerkraut!) – The Grotto
3/140 Brighton Mall
Formally The Grotto, the recently opened Urban Monk Fermentary is the place to go for all your fermented veggie needs. New Brighton local, Matt Morris has been making sauerkraut and selling his products online for over 10 years but has recently converted his studio, gallery and curiosities store, The Grotto into the Urban Monk Fermentary. The also sell delicious toasties!
When Your Sister Is A Witch At 105
105 Brighton Mall
Artisan Emporium, 105, is the perfect place to get a present or treat for yourself with unique, sustainable, handmade options worth having a slow ramble through. Venture into the back of the store to find the best healthcare and beauty products from “When Your Sister is a Witch” by Sam Brown. The rose and chamomile face mist is a must, the dried flower bouquets are beautiful and if you are ever stuck in your mind, body or soul, a massage from Sam will give you wings.
Experience The Natural Beauty Of New Brighton On Foot
Take a leisurely stroll around the many natural playgrounds of New Brighton and stop in along the way to smell the roses and appreciate the beauty Mother Nature has to offer - she is the best artist. Head over to the Southshore Spit Reserve to have a gander and have a rest on the bench seat there to enjoy the serenity. Or sit on top of the sand dunes at New Brighton beach and watch the ocean - add a sunrise to this, and boom – you have the perfect way to spend a morning!
Books, Views And Garden Talks
213 Marine Parade
Love to read a book in a cozy wee nook? The New Brighton Library has you covered. The view is unlike any other library in Christchurch, snuggle into one of the big chairs and you have your afternoon of bliss sorted. The New Brighton Library also hosts talks and events – including those run by the community garden.
Happy Feet
121 Brighton Mall
Fixing rather than throwing things away is the specialty of local shoe monger Happy Feet. They have been in business for over 35 years and with top-notch craftsmanship and genuine customer service, it’s no wonder why. Get your fave pair of boots fixed with quality and care at this local store.
