Crafting Friendship And Community
Improving mental and physical health and creating a sense of belonging, Te Puke Menz Shed is more than just workshop. It's the life skills, opportunities and meaningful connection that brings the men back to the shed week after week.
Te Puke Menz Shed is a fully equipped wood working workshop for men over 60 to participate in projects repairing and making goods for themselves and the wider community. The shed offers men a welcoming space to share their skills, have a laugh, and work on practical projects, both individually and as a group.
It's an initiative that started in Australia in the 1990's and has a worldwide community. Menz Sheds can be found all around Aotearoa New Zealand, with ten sheds throughout the Bay of Plenty. Established in 2017, Te Puke Menz Shed has over 35 members.
With a focus on all things wooden, projects are wide ranging from crafting new items, to repairing furniture and restoration projects. Timber toys are thoughtfully crafted with care and donated to organisations such as the Salvation Army who give them to families in need. Creating bespoke outcomes to suit their unique need, they work closely with schools, daycare centres, kindergartens, churches, community centres, the general public, councils, and environmental agencies.
Current President Kevin Heath says that working directly with the local community means the men can use their skills to support them with custom, hand-crafted solutions.
'Whether they need rat traps made for pest management, or play equipment for a local school, the men take immense pride in their work.'
'Being a part of the shed is a lot of fun and it is great to see new faces join us, especially when they are younger than most of us. It's our hope that they will carry on building the future this special place.'
The shed provides a true sense of purpose for its members, with the friendships formed supporting their mental and physical well-being. Addressing men's health issues is a core objective of the Menz Shed movement where there are opportunities for health providers to come and korero with the men in an environment where the men feel comfortable.
'When I first joined the shed, I did so because I enjoy working with my hands and making 'stuff', however I have since learned that the shed is not about woodwork, it is about maintaining men's well-being in their retirement years and wood working is just the mechanism by which we do that.'
TECT Community Trust granted over $7,000 to the Shed in 2024 for replacement and purchase of woodworking equipment. This included a new wall saw which has made it easier to take on larger projects.
TECT Trustee Greg Brownless says that as a community focused hub, the Menz Shed serves its members and the wider community in a practical and positive way.
'Empowering these men through providing a safe and social environment has significant impact on their wellbeing through their retirement years. The connection between members and that to the community is having wonderful impact and we are proud to support the shed to grow and continue to contribute.'
Visitors are welcome at The Shed at 48 Cameron Road, Te Puke. They are open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9am to 12pm.
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