DIY Shed Rotorua keen to welcome more members on a DIY journey

Anthony Breuer (left), Jocelyn Jacobs, Roy Tihema and Maria Rees at Rotorua DIY Shed. Photo / Andrew Warner

A great community partnership has been developing since January 2021 between DIY Shed Rotorua and Te Rangihakahaka Centre for Science and Technology.

This is where women, young people, and tradesmen can learn and be taught 'basic trade skills' in woodworking, small engine repairs, woodworking, small engine repairs and DIY home improvement tips.

Roy Tihema - who has been working in building and construction for 40 years - has been volunteering at the shed for six months, sharing his knowledge and experience on Thursday nights.

He says, "It's great that the shed provides people with the opportunity to make things for their home such as tables and stools.

"In the building industry we've seen a change, with a lot of women coming on board doing jobs such as scaffolding."

When he retires this is where he wants to be.

Anthony Breuer, a mechanic-engineer and fitter welder, has been volunteering since October.

He says he enjoys helping people figure out problems.

"You can give them the basic skills and help them to develop good problem solving techniques.

"I like the whole atmosphere. It's all about the learning and it's enjoyable to be a part of."

Maria Rees says she started going to the shed in February after moving to Rotorua in January.

She says she likes doing woodwork and wanted to get back into it while also making friends in Rotorua.

"It's a wonderful spot, easy to find, Jocelyn [shed manager] is amazing, and the people who come to tutor are very helpful and give their time for nothing.

"It's great manaakitanga here. Everybody helps everybody."

DIY Shed Rotorua shed manager Jocelyn Jacobs whakapapas to Ngapuhi, Ngati Ranginui and Te Arawa.

She says many generations of her whānau have worked in trades, and still do to this day.

"My mother and aunty were an inspiration to me. They'd get roadside furniture destined for the tip, upcycle them, and sell them in their shop in Otahuhu.

"They didn't make a lot of money but they certainly had lots of fun while doing it."

DIY Shed Rotorua session times are Wednesdays 10am to 3.30pm and Thursdays 5pm to 9.30pm.

Your first visit is free, then there is a six month or 12 month membership.

Get in contact on the Facebook Page - DIY Shed Rotorua or send an email to diyrotorua@gmail.com.