CEA is a registered New Zealand Charitable Trust, working within our community since 1994. Alongside providing subsidised insulation and heating, we collect quality, preloved curtains and upcycle them to support households in need of better warmth. Our Curtain Bank service is open to individuals and whānau facing financial challenges, whether you live in a private rental, kainga noho pāpori (social housing), or own your home—no Community Services Card required.
Curtain Bank – Preloved curtains
Upcycled, preloved curtains for low-income whāmere
What curtains can we offer?
- To help as many homes as possible, we can provide up to 10 pairs per whare.
- Each pair of upcycled curtains is double-layered for insulation and adjusted to fit just over the window sill (not floor-length).
- All our curtains are donated to us, so colour/pattern availability is limited to what we have on hand.
Why curtains are important
Curtains are like insulation for your windows. Lined, well-fitted curtains will go a long towards keeping your home warm and energy-efficient in winter. Good quality, lined curtains are also recommended for double-glazed windows.
Please note: Curtain Bank visits are by appointment only. Please complete the application form below and we will contact you to book a date and time for your appointment.
Me pēhea te tono (How to apply)
To apply:
- Fill in the ‘Apply for curtains’ form.
- Make sure that under ‘comments’ at the bottom of the form you list colours, patterns, etc you would prefer.
- We will contact you to make an appointment to choose your curtains. During lockdowns we may need to choose your curtains for you based on your preferences.
We can have a waiting list for up to three months especially in autumn and winter. Please be patient, it may be some time before we can get to you.
Koha Pūtea (Donations)
The Curtain Bank is not fully funded and relies on koha to be able continue its service. Every dollar makes a difference.
Suggested donations per curtain set:
- CSC holders/all tenants: gold coin
- homeowners without CSC: $5
- landlords: $20
You can make donations in our on-site donations box or online through our Givealittle page.
Ngā koha ārai (Curtain donations)
We appreciate your koha of preloved curtains in good condition. We can only take curtains which:
- Are absolutely free of mould
- Are not faded or ripped
Curtains for recycling can be dropped off at the following locations:
- Curtain Bank – 55 Ferry Road during opening hours only, see ‘contact us’
- Shirley Library – 36 Marshland Road
- Halswell Library – 341 Halswell Road
- 7 Denniston Cres, Redwood (private residence)
- 5 Binstead Place, Avondale (private residence)
- 55 Rosewarne St, Spreydon (private residence)
Curtains can NOT be dropped off at our head office!
Te kohi i ōu ārai (Collecting your curtains)
Customers in Christchurch and immediate surroundings (Rolleston, Kaiapoi, Rangiora, etc) are asked to pick up their curtains from our Curtain Bank premises in Christchurch.
For customers outside these areas:
As our insulation assessors travel to Kaikoura, Ashburton and the West Coast regularly, and may be able to drop off in these towns as well as localities along the State Highways en route there. Please be aware that you may need to be patient as we do not travel there on a weekly basis.
What are the benefits of curtains?
Keeps the Heat in
With a lining, our curtains insulate your windows, trapping heat inside. This will save you on energy costs during colder months.
Increases Energy Efficiency
As curtains keep the heat in better, your home will be more energy efficient and you will be warmer and may have a lower power bill.
Increases Privacy
Curtains can increase your privacy and block unwanted street views.
Reduces Noise Levels
Our double-lined curtains help to reduce outside noises. This makes a more peaceful and relaxing space for your home.
Blocks Light
Our thick curtains help to prevent light from entering in the morning. Meaning you get a better sleep.
The Curtain Bank is made possible thanks to our generous funders
Genesis has been proudly supporting our Curtain Bank since 2010.
The Lotteries Grants Board has been supporting our Curtain Bank for many years.
