Menzshed to hold opening

Ready to enjoy the Waimate Menzshed’s grand opening are (from left) Colin Dore, Neil King, Noel...
Ready to enjoy the Waimate Menzshed’s grand opening are (from left) Colin Dore, Neil King, Noel Stackhouse, Keith Hollick, Hec Ottley, Robin Watson, Graeme Shaw, Paul Crosbie and Robert Godfrey. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Menzshed Waimate will host its grand opening on Sunday.

The shed will be open for everyone to wander through, allowing the public the chance to see how the old slinkskin factory has been revitalised.

Waimate Mayor Craig Rowley is expected to say a few words, and then a barbecue will take place.

Chairman John Dawson said it had taken organisers over 12 months to get them to where they were today.

A group of financial members had "willingly and loyally" turned up twice weekly, he said, "doing what ever is required — no job too big or too small."

Menzsheds were scattered across New Zealand and the organisation hoped to provide a welcoming and inclusive space for all men to attend and find companionship, a learning environment and a place to spend time on personal and community projects, he said.

The organisation focused on members’ health and wellbeing by providing a physical gathering point with all the tools and gear necessary to complete projects.

It aimed to provide members with friendship and a sense of purpose in a safe environment.

Local builder and member Peter Langford took on the job of building a wall to separate the Menzshed from the district council.

Mr Langford had completed that with the help of other members — "which has given us warmth and the added addition of keeping the birds out".

"We have been humbled by the generous donations from many in our community along with fellow Menzsheds around the Canterbury area.

"We look forward to welcoming more members and to start manufacturing."

The event starts at the shed at 2pm.