Junk to Funk 2025 – Brought to you by South Canterbury Eco Centre and the Crow’s Nest, 1st place prizes sponsored by Enviro NZ
Junk to Funk is all about turning waste into wonder — celebrating creativity from novice to experienced. This year’s theme is FUNK-TIONAL: creations that don’t just look funky but serve a purpose too.
Bring your upcycled masterpiece to the South Canterbury Eco Centre for judging and public viewing, with awards decided by both expert judges and community votes. Entries must be made from a large proportion of recycled materials and be able to be displayed in the Eco Centre.
🗓️ Key Dates
- Entry Deadline: Thursday 10th July 3pm
- Judging: Thursday 24th July
- Public Display: Friday 25th & Saturday 26th July 2025
- Awards Afternoon: Saturday 26th July
2025 Theme: FUNK-TIONAL
Form meets purpose. Junk meets genius. This year’s entries must do something: hold, help, store, light up, carry, display — anything that makes life a little easier or more interesting. Think upcycled furniture, wearable tools, storage hacks, or just wonderfully weird inventions with a function.
📦 Categories & Entry Fees
🔹 Adult Novice – $20
For first-time or casual makers. You’re figuring it out, and that’s awesome. We value bold ideas over polish.
🔹 Adult Experienced – $20
You’re confident with materials or have creative experience. Bring your skills and push the boundaries.
🔹 High School (Years 9–13) – $10
Open to rangatahi whether creating at home or a school project.
🔹 Primary School (Years 0–8) – $5
For tamariki exploring creativity – it’s the imagination that counts.
Note: Space is limited — Bedside cabinet size is welcomed. No powered or plumbed builds, please. Optional: Please supply a before photo (e.g. the item in its original junk state).
Extras
- Holiday Workshop: Keep an eye out for a holiday workshop aimed at supporting Primary entries.
- Material Support: Visit the Crows Nest for inspiration and support.
- Silent Auction: Want to donate your creation to support the Eco Centre’s playground? Select “yes” on the form to enter the 2-day silent auction.
🏆 Judges & Prizes
Placings AND Public Choice Award: Judging is on Thursday 24th July and then we will host a public viewing of all entries at the South Canterbury Eco Centre on Friday 25th and Saturday 26th July. During this public viewing we will vote for the Public Choice Award.
Prizes cash prizes for first place from Enviro NZ. We are keen to bulk up our other prize offerings and would love to hear from you if you are wanting to sponsor this event.