Kia ora from Blair and Irirangi of 'Pai in this Kai', and creators of the Facebook Group Aparima Barter and Exchange.
This all began after a lot of talk about "what's in our food...?"; and a decision to make a Rēwana bug that produced more bread than we could eat.
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What is Rēwana?
Commonly known as 'Maori Bread', Rēwana is a potato sour dough made without yeast. With only four ingredients, (Flour, potato, water, and sugar), Rēwana has no added preservatives, yet it lasts longer than 'modern bread' from the supermarket, and tastes divine! Our bug was so active that we were baking 3 loaves daily. This was way more than we could manage, so we decided to put it on Facebook to see if anyone wanted to purchase, or trade for the bread. This was met with such a positive response, and so the Aparima Barter and Exchange Group was formed. The aim was to link up with other like-minded people and establish a regular trade for our excess fresh bread. Since the inception of this group almost a month ago (this was written in July2026), we've welcomed over 450 members and have made some great connections and trades.
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Why barter and trade in a world obsessed with commerce?
As firm believers in 'People Power', we've both noticed a societal shift towards dependence on convenience. This has seen a decline in the age-old practice of exchanging excess goods/ produce, or skills/labour for something of equal worth.
These old-school ways that once promoted real community are quickly diminishing and being replaced by a culture of consumerism. We want to remind everyone that there is still value in real things made by real people.
Our shared love of cooking, and backgrounds in hospitality, means we've had fun finding creative ways to use our overabundance of bread. This led to us taking our Rēwana to the Riverton Community Market and selling everything bar 2 items, prompting us to make it official.
Launching our Home-based initiatives has allowed us to create, and work together on things we both believe in; share our passion for good food, and make meaningful connections in our community.
We'd love for you to come and see us at the Riverton Community Market (on the last Sunday of every month) or get in touch with us through either of our Facebook pages (links above).