Second-Hand Sunday turns Central Hawke’s Bay streets into treasure hunt

Central Hawke's Bay residents Anthony Beachen (right) and flatmate Liam Fontaine went hunting for goods in the Second-Hand Sunday event and found a barbecue. Photo / Central Hawke's Bay District Council

Driveways across Central Hawke’s Bay were filled with treasures as the district’s annual Second-Hand Sunday event turned local streets into lively treasure hunting spots.

Over 100 properties were registered to take part on Sunday, but as the day unfolded, many more households joined in, inspired by their neighbours, who had already filled their driveways with items ready for a new home.

Central Hawke’s Bay District Council solid waste officer Themba Ncomanzi said the event showed how simple ideas can make a big difference for both the community and the environment.

“Second-Hand Sunday is about more than just clearing out garages,” Ncomanzi said.

“It’s about keeping good items in use, reducing what goes to landfill and creating those small moments where neighbours connect over something as simple as a shared find.”

Cars and trailers lined the streets as people explored the offerings, from books and toys to furniture and household goods, stopping to chat while browsing the free finds.

Items that ranged from small to large were quickly snapped up by keen collectors. Photo / Central Hawke's Bay District Council

Anthony Beachen, who moved to the district from Napier a year ago, said the event highlighted the strong sense of community in Central Hawke’s Bay.

“You never really see things like this in town. The community here is way better, a lot friendlier and closer together,” Beachen said.

“It’s a really cool environment to be part of.”

His flatmate Liam Fontaine agreed.

“It’s just a lovely community, everyone is kind, everyone knows each other, and people look out for each other,” Fontaine said.

Marie and Ron Garnham, who registered their Nelson St property in Waipukurau, said they were happy to take part again.

They said it was brilliant, as people can get rid of stuff they don’t need anymore and others can still get good use out of it.

Martin Eagle was among those who made some unique discoveries.

“People get rid of stuff and others get things you don’t see in shops these days.”

Eagle said he was able to pick up a CD holder on Nelson St.

“Who sells CD holders nowadays?”

Nae Hammond made the trip from Hastings to join the treasure hunt.

“It’s a great initiative and a great community event. There’s always good treasure hunting,” Hammond said.

Families also made the most of the day out together.

Marni Perenikowallacepeeti was proud of her finds, including bean bags and clothes, while her mum Charris Perenikowallacepeeti said the event had been a fun way to explore their new community.

“We’ve just moved here from Manawatū. I saw the event advertised but didn’t think much of it until I drove into town this morning and saw all the driveways and thought that’s cool stuff. It’s been great to get out and about and see the community.”

On Bibby St in Waipawa, Liam Patterson and apprentice builder Ra Davenport loaded a trailer with items for Davenport’s new house.

“It’s been awesome,” Patterson said.

“Ra’s just moved here from Palmerston North and it’s been great filling up the house with things that were someone else’s stuff but are now treasures in the home.”