It's only five months until Greerton's trees will be dressed up again and the village transformed into a woollen wonderland from July-August in the annual Yarn Bombing event.

Right now – Yarn Bombing coordinator Chrissy St.Armant is encouraging more people and groups to pick up needles and hooks, with this year's theme: Waterways of the World - Nga Wai Ara O Te Ao.

'We want more individuals and groups to enter and share what the theme means to them; and have visitors leaving Greerton Village inspired by the beauty and relevance of our wai [waterways].”

People and groups can register now for a tree to cover – and for 2023 there will be no formal judging.

'This year entrants also have the opportunity to fundraise for their favourite charity via Givealittle pages online.”

For the public voting section, another category is in play, with Chrissy aiming to show that yarn bombing can be a sustainable and inspiring art installation.

'To enter this new category the entire piece must be made of stash yarn or by repurposing other yarn-work.

'For example, we have many sleeves – the work wrapped around a tree – and many embellishments and decorations our registered groups can access to create their own vision relevant to the theme.”

Chrissy St.Armant with Aroha Mita and the decorated tree supporting Tauranga Women's Refuge. Photo: Rosalie Liddle Crawford.

Chrissy says yarn bombing offers the public the opportunity to get involved in a community spirit event and raise funds for a cause they are passionate about.

'We welcome all newcomers and all levels of skill – there is assistance available for those who need it.

'We can also team up individuals or keep those who want to be un-identified, anonymous.

And – if you've never picked up a hook or needle before, that's okay.

'We'll organise a hui, and supply the yarn and or needles (if needed) to all ‘bombers'.

'And because we're trying to keep purchase of new purpose-bought yarn low, we'd greatly appreciate any stash donations."

Chrissy thanks Ray White Greerton for their generous sponsorship of the annual yarn bombing.

Register now by contacting Chrissy – phone or text 021 2209 7008 or email: greertonyarnbombing@gmail.com

Entries will be installed July 2, 2023.