Get thrifty

Photo shows a colourful lounge with plants and an eclectic array of op-shopped treasures, including comfy seating and collectable mid-century ceramics and glass.

Whether you're trying to live with less "stuff" or you're just having a good old fashioned declutter – what are you supposed to do with the items you no longer want? We've got the answer!

 Photo shows stylish woman drinking from a Crown Lynn mug, standing in her colourful and comfortable home which is fully furnished with an eclectic array of second-hand treasures.

Second-hand shopping aficionado Megan Gowan's home is a shrine to eclecticism and purposeful repurposing.

Second hand definitely doesn't mean second best, and much of what we throw out still has a lot of life left. Here are our suggestions for how to turn your trash into someone else's treasure.

Donate it

It really is true that your trash could be someone else's treasure! Donating good quality used items like clothes, linen and kitchenware can help families in need throughout our community. Charity or opportunity (op) shops are the perfect place to donate your items as they are often given to those in need or sold with profits going back into the community.

There are several great community groups and charities in Palmy that will gratefully receive second-hand items in good condition, including the ones listed below. Click the link to find your local shop.

Sell it

Reselling items is a great way to make sure they get a second lease on life, while also making some handy pocket money at the same time. Everything from clothes to furniture to your dad's vintage vinyl records can easily find a new home. Try listing your items on Facebook Marketplace, local buy and sell pages or TradeMe.

Tips to help you get started

  1. Do your research and make sure your item is reasonably priced. Compare different listings of similar products to get a good starting point.
  2. It doesn't need to be Instagram-worthy, but some good, clear photos will make your listing more appealing to a buyer.
  3. Write a detailed description and be honest.
  4. Be reachable – there's nothing worse than missing a sale because you were too slow replying.
  5. Be ready to negotiate.

If you do make a local sale, don't forget our safe trading zone is the perfect place to meet your buyer.

Alternatively, if you're looking to sell high end clothing items, try a specialist fashion reseller:

Regift it

While the idea of regifting can be a little awkward, but it's much better than the alternative. For many of us, giving a gift is a way of showing our love and appreciation but we don't necessarily love all the gifts we receive.

So, next time you receive a gift that's "just not me", why not pass it on to someone you know will enjoy it? That way the item doesn't go to waste.

If you're struggling to find something a home elsewhere, there's always donating. As well as second-hand items in good condition, Women's Refuge also accepts donations of new goods like beauty and hygiene products. These are passed on to women and children experiencing family violence.

Photo shows stylish woman with bold spectacles standing in a clothing aisle at an op-shop, holding up an outfit she's pulled from the racks: leather jacket, scarf and bag.  

You don't have to spend a lot to create a look, says Megan Gowan.

What's the best way of looking stylish on a budget? Shop second-hand. So says Megan Gowan, who reckons Palmy is home to some of New Zealand's best op-shops. We featured her in our winter 2019 issue of Palmy Proud.

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