COCO AND CO

A sculpture of a greyhound (called Gus) is all gussied up in a knitted jacket to greet visitors to Coco and Co in Hastings. This not-for-profit gift and homeware store specializes in handmade and recycled products by makers and artists in the Hawke's Bay including Mislaird, a crochet artist who makes adorable doll rabbits, and Butter and Clay, makers of bath bombs that look good enough to eat. The store is run by three crafty mums, including Gemma Mason, who sews children's clothing under the label Zoe & Gem. “‘Old school, new cool' is our motto and we support makers big and small,” says Gemma. “When I was just starting with my kids' clothing label, I would sell one baby bib a month, and I was so proud. I was a mum at home and to have something of my own was so exciting.” 240 Heretaunga Street East, Hastings.

(06) 650 5105, cocoandco.co.nz