Waiheke Ostend Market 50th Anniversary

- Event Type: Medium community event
- Description: A weekly morning market, celebrating their 50th anniversary
- Size: 400+
- Location: Anzac Reserve, Waiheke Island
- Waste Separation: Paper and cardboard, food scraps, aluminium, glass, lids, hard and soft plastics, and landfill
How we did:
1 Reduce incoming waste
Ostend Market provided as many zero waste opportunities as possible throughout their market.
A “Good To Go” stall and information point was set up at the market entrance, allowing everyone the chance to stop by as they entered the market. This stall provided clean dishes, cutlery, and mugs that were free to borrow, and used at stalls over single-use items, and could be dropped off in the dirty dishes bucket once used.
2 Choose the right bin
Easily visible flags made of durable coffee sacks marked the waste separation stations. The stations were located at both front and back entrances of the market.
3 Let people know
Each bin was clearly labelled, with example pictures. As this is a weekly market, many people on Waiheke are already conscious of these practices. 6 volunteers were available around the market to answer questions and provide options.
4 Capture feedback
Visitors from outside Waiheke Island, both from around New Zealand and internationally, were curious about the stations, and ask questions at the Good To Go stall. It was received positively, and many commented on what a great idea it is to eat and drink from real mugs and plates.
Key Messages:
- Provide clear and simple instructions to not overload visitors with information.
- Remain visible and approachable; it is one of the best ways to raise awareness.
Key Learnings:
- Remain consistent, as it always takes time for people to get used to new systems.
- Brief stallholders on the waste separation scheme so that they can offer zero waste options to visitors.