Quick Links
Did you know that every minute a truckload of plastic is dumped into our oceans? Here in Wānaka, Plastic-Free Wānaka is working to reduce our contribution to plastic waste.
We should kick off by talking about specific eco friendly shops in Wānaka that prioritise reusing and recycling. Of course, we have to mention Wastebusters. In addition to awesome op shop finds, Wastebusters also runs repair workshops, education and stewardship programs, and operates a recycling centre.
On the hunt for a meal? Make it plastic-free.
Freshlink Grocer aims to take groceries back to more simplistic and basic principles, with a variety of food categories like produce, meat, herbs, and pantry essentials, all with zero or minimal processing.
If you’re in the mood for take out, grab a container and your keep cup, and head to Big Fig for delicious take-out that makes sustainable dining easy. You’ll find an ever-changing selection of slow-cooked meats, hot plant-based dishes, super-tasty salads, and Middle Eastern-inspired dishes.
While you’re shopping, you may find yourself craving a cuppa and the best way to enjoy your caffeine fix is by going single-use cup free (SUCFree). Twenty-four cafes and caravans in Wānaka have now implemented cup-lending schemes with reusable cups or libraries and eleven are completely SUCfree (no disposable cups), saving 180,000 cups from landfill annually.
For bathroom or cleaning refills, check out New World or Freshlink Grocer. And for other products like unpackaged soaps, dental care and bath products, take a look at Plastic-Free Wanaka’s guide.
