A new craft collective dedicated to supporting local makers and artisans has opened its doors in Edgecumbe today.

Kiwi Chic Craft Collective brings together around 40 creators under one roof, offering shoppers a wide range of handmade products.

Owner Karen Hennessy, who moved to Matatā from Huntly 18 months ago, said the idea grew from her experience running a successful craft co-operative in Huntly and recognising a similar need in the Eastern Bay.

“I make handcrafts as well, and I know a lot of people who make handcrafts,” she said.

“As we get older, it gets harder to go to a market, unpack, pack up and do all the rest of it. So a shop as a collective is a great idea.”

Hennessy said she had originally hoped to establish the collective in Whakatāne, but affordable premises proved difficult to find.

“I approached Cussacks that manage the Riverslea Mall and they were really good; they were so accommodating. We managed to secure this beautiful spot.”

The collective will showcase a diverse range of locally made products including artwork, jewellery, 3D printed items, flax weaving, quarter-wire creations, handmade clothing, macramé, concrete art, knitting and sewing.

“There are a few knitters, but they all have their different styles. The artists all have their different styles, too,” Hennessy said.

The project has attracted strong interest from makers since it was first proposed.

“Before Christmas last year, I put an ad up and got such a huge response. Then I put another ad up a couple of months ago and got a huge response again.”

Unlike many retail outlets, Kiwi Chic operates as a shared retail space. Suppliers pay a low weekly shelf-space fee, retain the full income from their sales and are not charged commission.

“We tried to make it affordable and make sure the rent and expenses are covered, too,” Hennessy said.

She hopes the collective will become more than just a shop.

“What I hope it brings is a hub where people can come in, have a chit-chat and see the talent we have here. And encourage people to shop local and support our local artists.

“It’s a sense of belonging to the community and giving to the community. I don’t get paid for my time, I sell my stuff here, too, and get paid for what I sell.”

To celebrate the opening, every purchase made during the first week will go into the draw to win a hamper featuring donated products from the collective’s suppliers.

People interested in becoming a supplier can contact Kiwi Chic through its Facebook page or by emailing [email protected].