Creating green space

In the heart of Ōtautahi Christchurch, The Green Lab is working on a bold new project, Understorey.

For six weeks, from August 18, the Arts Centre Gym has been transformed into a social space where people can come together and just be in the central city, without having to purchase anything. In this first iteration of the project, Cantabrians are invited to connect with change organisations, community groups, innovators, entrepreneurs, and creatives alike.

“The past couple of years have wrought big changes to the ways we work and connect with each other. This project brings a range of people together, tests ways of sharing space, and hopes to support a flourishing, wellbeing-focused economy,” says programme director of The Green Lab, Khye Hitchcock. The multi-function space is fitted out with creative furniture that supports connection and collaboration (including a ‘Green Connection Pod’), and of course, plenty of plants delivering all the wellbeing benefits that come from being surrounded by them.

During the day and some evenings for the next six weeks, The Green Lab will also host events, conversations, and opportunities to join community groups, innovators and organisations as they share what they love to do.

Understorey is a pilot project; The Green Lab’s dream is to find a permanent home supported by a sustainable business model. The pilot is supported by the COVID Lotteries Response, Christchurch City Council, and The Arts Centre Te Matatiki Toi Ora.