All over Christchurch, NZ, in sheds of every shape and size, there are committed enthusiasts doing the things they love: from rebuilding vintage cars to growing vegies, from painting and wood turning to soap making and motorbike collecting.
In November 2023, the Rotary Passport Club of Ōtautahi organised the first ever Christchurch Shed Tour, Behind the Shed Door, as a unique fundraiser for three charities that encourage under-fives’ to thrive: Whanau Awhina Plunket Canterbury, Perinatal Wellbeing Canterbury, and Rotary Community Breastmilk Bank.
The shed owners opened the doors of their sheds for the day and ticket holders enjoyed a self-drive tour, choosing their own route around Christchurch, visiting the sheds that interested them.
It proved to be a very successful day and the Canterbury weather was kind. All 13 sheds on view were well patronised and visitors were excited about the variety of sheds presented. They were very interested in the stories associated with many of the crafts and exhibited products. Visitors commented that they had learned useful information from shed owners, marvelled at the skill and expertise of others, and enjoyed being able to purchase products at some.
Shed owners were supported on the day by Ōtautahi Passport Rotarians, who directed visitors where to go and also managed the numbers for some of the very popular sheds. It proved a wonderful opportunity for community members to connect with Rotary.
Cream tea was available at two locations and proved popular, especially at an art studio with a beautiful garden setting.
Due to its success, and as a result of the many requests on the day, Rotary Ōtautahi Passport has decided to repeat the event again in 2024.