A flash new shed for Kerikeri

Kerikeri Men's Shed members Allan Taylor, John Tetley and Peter Schenker are impressed with their new building. Photo / Jenny Ling

Morning teas have become a whole lot better for retired men in Kerikeri, thanks to a flash new building that has been gifted to the town's Men's Shed.

About 150 people gathered at the opening of the new premises on Kapiro Rd last week, including members and their grateful wives, Mayor John Carter, members of the Dargaville and Whangārei Men's Sheds, and sponsors.

The purpose-built 540 square metre facility is fully fitted out with a large woodwork area, separate engineering workshop and a communal area with a kitchen.

It was gifted by founding member John Walst and his wife, Jillian, as a 12-year lease, and replaces the old premises, a "dilapidated shed" on State Highway 10, which was only around 100 square metres. It also received a $70,000 infrastructure grant from the Far North District Council.

Chairman Kevin Mahoney thanked the "very generous" and significant benefactors of the shed, including the Walsts, the council, local building suppliers and other sponsors.

"Because members are so important to the shed, this will enable us, with the separate areas and lunchroom, to do whatever the members want. If they want to play cards at morning tea they can do that," he said.

"All the extra space gives us many more options."

Men's Sheds are places where retired men gather to share skills, have a laugh and work on community and personal projects. Much of the group's work is for charities, which supply the materials while the men do the work at little or no cost.

They also take on jobs for local businesses and make things to sell, with the proceeds going into the kitty for new tools and machinery.

The Kerikeri shed was established in 2015, and has grown to accommodate 75 members. They moved into their new building early this year, but the official opening was delayed due to Covid-19.

Mayor John Carter congratulated the men on their new building, and for the "tremendous contribution" they make to the community.

"The Men's Shed represents what our nation used to be like 20 to 30 years ago, and sadly this is disappearing," he said.

"That's why I wanted to be here to acknowledge that we still have people in our community who remember the most important thing we can do for the community is give to it."

Secretary Wade Rowsell said the Shed also helped with members' mental health by developing a strong sense of camaraderie and support.

"It's about giving the guys the opportunity to talk to each other and form friendships," he said.

"It's really nice to create an opportunity for men to get together socially and build things for the community. The most important part of our day is morning tea."

The Kerikeri Men's Shed is open Monday to Friday, from 9am to midday. Anyone who might like to join is welcome to go to www.menzshed.org.nz/kerikeri, or phone (09) 407-8263.