MenShed members recently got together to put their practical skills to use for a person in need. 

The ‘MenShed’ - which has recovered materials and tools where people can get together to repair and make things - is part of the recently-opened Wanaka Community Workshop (WCW) on Gordon Road.

Since opening in May, members have made a variety of items for local groups and organisations, from rodent traps to Lilliput libraries.

The latest project came about when WCW coordinator Ben Acland received a call from the Otago Community Trust asking for help fixing a flooring issue at the home of a man with terminal cancer.

Wanaka Community Workshop coordinator Ben Acland (right) and Gwilym Griffith-Jones.

He had severely damaged floors - with borer in the floorboards as well as holes - which meant it was dangerous for him and the care workers who provide home help.

Members Allan Harvey, Gerald MacDonald, Graham Stuart and “ring-in” Angus Rowley laid the new floor, Ben said, and Placemakers generously donated the wood.

The MenShed, which opened earlier this year, now has a “hardcore” group of five members, another six regulars, and six more who are involved less frequently, Ben said.

MenShed members have worked on a range of community projects since the WCW opened in May.

They have created rat traps with Cardrona and Treble Cone staff and completed projects for WAI Wanaka, Te Kura O Take Kārara and Queenstown Lakes District Council.

The biggest ongoing project for WCW, Ben said, is creating the workshop itself and spreading the word about it.

“Our plan now is to open up Monday and Wednesday evenings for CreatorSpace,” he said.

“Unlike the MenShed where members are retired men making things for the community, CreatorSpace is for anyone to become a member and then use the space to create, make and repair.” 

Learn more about the Wanaka Community Workshop Trust here.

PHOTOS: Supplied