A tribute to the transformation that the Riccarton West Community Garden has helped bring about in the local area was paid by MP Megan Woods at the official opening of Te Pataka, Riccarton West Community Pantry, on 6th June. The MP said that when she was elected in 2011, this part of Riccarton was seen as one of the most disconnected areas of Christchurch. Now it has become one of the areas with life.

Dr Woods and City Councillor Vicki Buck honoured the work of Nic and Loretta Te Paa for driving this project, and the part the community volunteers played each week to make it happen. Also acknowledged were the City Council for financial support of the pantry, Zac Wilkinson and his crew for time in building they generously gave, Kelsey Moke for her support in her role as an intern with the council, Skope for the gift of a fridge, City Harvest for produce and food donated to the pantry, and Orion for helping to get the power on site.

The Pantry, situated at the Community Garden, Peverel St, is open 11am-1pm, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.