Sustainability
Efforts
We’re committed to sustainability through community-driven reuse initiatives that reduce landfill waste and give second-hand goods a new life.
The Bizarre—Community Resale Shop
The Bizarre is a vibrant and welcoming re-sale shop located in the heart of Coromandel Town, offering an ever-changing selection of quality second-hand clothing, household goods, books, and unique treasures—all at affordable prices. It’s a place where bargain hunters, vintage lovers, and environmentally conscious shoppers alike can find something special.
More than just a shop, The Bizarre is a hub for community connection and sustainability. By promoting reuse and recycling, we help reduce waste and give pre-loved items a new life, while also supporting those in our community looking for budget-friendly shopping options.
In 2019, The Bizarre became part of the Coromandel Independent Living Trust (CILT), and since then has continued to grow as a much-loved local institution. All earnings from The Bizarre go directly back into the community through CILT’s various projects and services—including the CILT Community Grants Scheme, which provides financial support to local individuals, groups, and initiatives making a positive impact in the Coromandel area.
Contact Us
Email: thebizarre@cilt.org.nz
Our opening hours are Tuesday to Friday 10am to 4pm, and Monday/Saturday 10am to 2pm. Closed on Public Holidays.
The Goldmine—Reuse Centre
Opened in 2016, The Goldmine was established with a clear mission: to reduce waste, support sustainability, and give reusable goods a second life. By diverting items from landfill, The Goldmine plays a vital role in protecting our environment and promoting a circular economy within the Coromandel community.
We accept a wide range of donations, from household goods and furniture to tools, building materials, and quirky treasures perfect for creative DIY projects. Our ever-changing stock means there’s always something new to explore—and every purchase supports local sustainability efforts.
In 2024 alone, an incredible 44 tonnes of quality items were saved from landfill thanks to the generosity of our donors, the support of our shoppers, and the dedication of our amazing team.
Coromandel Refuse Transfer Station (RTS)
Coromandel Independent Living Trust currently manages the staff at the Coromandel Refuse Transfer Station, located at 525 Hauraki Road, Coromandel, under a subcontracting agreement. The facility itself is operated by Waste Management NZ. For any enquiries related to the RTS, please contact the site directly.
For opening hours and contact details, please visit the Thames-Coromandel District Council website here.
Contact Us
Email: thegoldmine@cilt.org.nz
Our opening hours are Monday-Sunday from 9:30am to 4:30pm. Closed Christmas Day.
Samuel James Reserve Building
The small heritage building now home to the Coromandel Town Information Centre was built in the 1880s and moved to Samuel James Reserve in the late 1920s. By 2004, the building was in poor condition and set to be demolished. That’s when the Coromandel Independent Living Trust stepped in. Led by Mike Noonan, CILT brought together a group of locals—including a descendant of Samuel James—to explore saving it. Over four years, they raised funds, gathered donated materials and labour, and partnered with Thames-Coromandel District Council and the Ministry of Social Development to restore it.
The refurbished building reopened in 2010, providing public toilets and shared office space. CILT secured a long-term lease for the land and purchased the building on behalf of the community.
In 2013, after the local i-SITE closed, the Coromandel Business Association approached CILT to help set up a new Information Centre, which has been operating from the building ever since. CILT continues to manage the public bathrooms inside the Samuel James Reserve building.
Pictured: After photo of the Samuel James Reserve building and current home of the Information Centre.