Craftsmen ready for takeoff

FLYING HIGH: Henley Men's Shed members Avon Carter (left) and Kevin Ball show off two of the helicopters and planes they have made for a fundraiser at Wings over Wairarapa 2015. PHOTO/LYNDA FERINGA

There will be a lot more planes and helicopters at Wings Over Wairarapa in January than those taking to the skies.

Henley Men's Shed members Kevin Ball and Avon Carter have been putting in the hours, making 100 wooden planes and 100 wooden helicopter souvenirs as a fundraiser for the Men's Shed.

It is a place where men get together to make things for the community and socialise with each other or learn about men's health.

Mr Ball said they needed to raise money to keep the shed going and would be selling the limited edition souvenirs for $35 each at Wings Over Wairarapa.

"We have to keep replacing blades and buying other things we need to keep the shed running," he said.

The wooden replica flying machines are not toys.

A scroll inserted in a "secret compartment" slotted behind the plane's propeller and each helicopter's red nose contains an individual number. "They are a collector's item, limited edition," Mr Ball said.

The pair have spent many hours each week working on the project.

Each souvenir has "Wairarapa 2015" laser-cut on the wings or rotor blades, with each hand-made piece using recycled mahogany handrails from a staircase and donated totara and other wood.

Mr Ball, a long-time "sheddie," said it had been hard work.

"I've had many sleepless nights and got RSI at times," he said. Mr Carter, who has been a member of Henley Men's Shed for only nine weeks or so, said the shed was a great place to be with other like-minded people.

"I've thoroughly enjoyed being part of this project."