“Look at all that rubbish!” a voice exclaimed as we rounded the bend. Happy Valley, despite its cheerful name, held a secret. A mountain of discarded treasures, a monument to our consumption, loomed before us at the Southern Landfill. But this place, Happy Valley, is more than just a landfill. This suburb, nestled in Wellington’s south, has a history as rugged and scenic as its coastline.
The name “Happy Valley” has echoed through these hills since the 1840s. Today, it’s a vital link between the bustling city and the wild beauty of Wellington’s south coast. Over 1,700 souls call Happy Valley home. A small, environmentally conscious community thrives here, embracing the area’s unique character.
Near the Owhiro Stream, a vibrant community garden flourishes. It’s a testament to the residents’ commitment to sustainability. This spirit is embodied by Friends of the Owhiro Stream, known as FOOS. Established in 2002, FOOS champions the health of the stream. Their work combats invasive weeds and encourages native planting.
Even the Southern Landfill, a stark reminder of our environmental impact, holds a glimmer of hope. Beside the mountains of rubbish sits the Tip Shop. Opened in 1997, the Tip Shop gives discarded goods a second life. It stands as a beacon of resourcefulness, saving nearly 1,000 tonnes of waste from the landfill annually. Happy Valley is a place of contrasts. It’s a place where the shadow of consumption meets the light of community and environmental responsibility.