Welly Clean Sweep

A Small Sweep Making a Big Difference

March has brought a new little initiative into the city called Welly Clean Sweep, and while it’s aimed at university students, it’s very much about caring for the places we all share.

Brought together by the Student Volunteer Army (SVA) of Victoria University, Inner-City Wellington and the University, the idea is simple: if a student spots rubbish while they’re out and about in the city, they pick it up, snap a quick photo, and send it through to a dedicated account. In return, they receive a discount at a local café - with a different café stepping up to sponsor each week throughout this month of March.

It’s a small action, but one that adds up. More importantly, it’s encouraging students to see the city as something they’re responsible for, not just passing through.

A big thank you
A huge shout-out goes to the local cafés supporting the programme - Volco, Aro Bake, Tuatua Cafe, and Lunch Money- thank you for supporting this! Your sponsorship helps turn a moment of civic pride into a warm drink and a place to pause. It’s so great to see local businesses backing initiatives that look after our shared spaces, especially in these challenging times.

If you happen to visit one of the participating cafés, you might like to let them know you appreciate what they’re supporting.

Every little bit matters
Even if you never pick up a piece of rubbish for a discount, it’s nice to know there are small, quiet efforts happening around the city to keep Wellington looking like the place we all love to live.