6 Weeks With Timebank

Hi there. My name is Nadia.

I am a Mum to three beautiful children. Our family moved from Christchurch to the Far North only a year and a half ago. Needless to say, we love it here. Now, I am a big lover of the outdoors, nature and all things gardening. Since being up here I have enjoyed spending some time in the Mara Kai, community garden.

I have been regularly attending Kath's Thursday workshops she has been holding there and learning valuable ways I can use herbs and vegetables from the garden.

I have learned how to make pesto from nearly any herbs nuts and seeds, how to use excess herbs to make the health tonic known as fire cideer, how to use other herbs for natural cleaners and pest repellent. I truly appreciate the sharing of these types of wisdom as it all helps us be a little more self sustainable and eco friendly! Kath's monthly herb workshops are on the last Thursday of every month 9-10am at Mara Kai o te Hapori and 3-5pm at Taipa Community Garden.

Since being in the Far North, I have really enjoyed volunteering my time to whanau events and creating magical spaces for tamariki to chill and create. I love giving back to this kind community I have joined, and for me that is why the concept of Timebanking makes sense. Although we as volunteers tend to give without the need for reciprocation, it is nice to be able to use time credits if you ever need some extra hands yourself, want to go to a particular workshop or would like to choose a trade someone has offered through Timeoverflow.

That is why I am excited to be working with Timebank as a stand in for six weeks and to be showing a bit more about what we do on our socials. There really are amazing opportunities in our rohe for people to learn, often for free and at the same time be helping others in their community. This beautiful relationship we can have of giving and receiving is for me, what makes a community tick- and never a cent need be exchanged.

(Although, a koha never did go underappreciated)

So if you see me out and about, don't be shy, feel free to say hello and ask me questions about Timebank, if you are unsure. I'll do my best to help or at least point you in the right direction! I always enjoy connecting with other members of the community.

In my last week or two with Timebank I get to hold an event as a little celebration! Myself and the team are considering a seed/seedling/crop swap as what a perfect time of the year to get your hands on some different seeds. Keep an eye out for this event, and I hope to see you out there.

Nadia.