Tiny shops, huge impact

The village opened it's doors late last year, but the change to the community is already clear.

Te Whare Roimata's Janine Carney says the shops are a great centre for the community. 

"They are not going to replace the 60% of shops that closed after the earthquakes that we lost in our area, but if you want to grab a coffee and get to know your neighbours that is a great place to do it."

The space has room for food caravans, a coffee shop, a community garden and even room for locals to perform music. Volunteers operate the shops and take care of the gardens. 

The Council’s Head of Urban Design, Regeneration and Heritage, Carolyn Ingles says the shops embrace the community's diversity.

"The goal of this tiny shops project is to create an accessible community hub, a place where people can meet, shop and make connections. It’s something new and special for the Linwood community that will promote revitalisation.”