Get thrifty in October

Preparing for a new arrival can be an expensive time.

There’s a cot, blankets, bassinets and clothes to scribble onto the essentials list. Buying second-hand items can help make preparing for baby less daunting for families, The Hospice Shop Henderson store manager Linda Clark says.

‘‘We get lots of mothers coming in. A lot of mums in this area are not able to afford high end and many can’t buy brand new,’’ Clark says.

‘‘They may see a new cot in a retail shops for say $600 and then they are able to buy a just as nice one in here for around $70. Some people up-cycle the items they buy and then it is in a better condition.’’

Hospice West Auckland is taking part in Buy Nothing New Month. The challenge is to buy nothing new, with exception of buying necessities, like food, hygiene and medicines.

Five of the Hospice West Auckland shops will be taking part, with its online TradeMe store also encouraging a month of thrifty shopping.

The charity is suggesting people mend their clothes, have a clothing swap party with their friends or donate pre-loved items to hospice during the month and continue the habits.

People can share their ideas Buy Nothing New Month projects and non-new purchases on hospice’s Instagram @bestopshops and Facebook Best Op Shops in the West.