A sense of community drove some of Wellington’s talented individuals to form Wellington Craft Co-Op Limited.

Since its opening in November 2023 the co-op has grown to eighty-nine members, and its walls are filled to the hilt with handmade collections and a range of art and craft supplies. The not-for-profit organisation has nine key holders who oversee the daily opening of the 146 Percy Street, Wellington, storefront. Keyholder Eleni Setter shares: “We love this place with a passion. It is a gathering place, a place to showcase local talent and a creative hub. We saw a need for this, and we are overjoyed to be supported by our community. Why sit at home alone when you can pop in here to have a browse and a chat?”

The Wellington Craft Co-Op is a mixed bag and a treasure trove for the creative soul... filled with donated art, craft, books, and bric-a-brac which assist in keeping the electricity on and the doors open. Members are also invited to sell hand-made items from candles, quilts, clothes, hats, and wooden creations for a small commission.

The co-op has found many community members stop in for a conversation and a friendly face or a space to share their creative works with a room available to work upon individual hobbies and works. Furthermore, to support the community the group are regularly donating to fundraising such as the Cancer Council, Wellington Show Society, and the Domestic Violence Morning Tea. Each Tuesday (nicknamed Tasty Tuesday) there is a selection of baked items, sweets, and breads for sale. After seeing a need for ‘home-made meals’ there is also a range of frozen meals and sweets in their well-stocked freezer. To encourage Wellington’s creative vibe, the Wellington Craft Co-Op also hold regular workshops and training. Each second Saturday of the month there is a Crocheting Day, for learners and experienced crocheters, from 10am until 2pm (cost $10).

Wellington Craft Co-Op is open Monday to Friday from 9am-4pm, and 10-2pm on the weekends.