Projects completed during 2025

Caskets for Babies Who Are Still Born Or Die In Early Life

Every year in New Zealand, over 600 babies die between 20 weeks gestation and 12 months of age. People who lose babies at birth, or soon after, are often young with limited financial resources. The bereaved parents often have other children to care for and finding the money of a funeral can add stress to an already difficult time.

We were approached by Aroha Funerals to ask if we could make baby caskets and structure the project so that they could be gifted to the parents. The Shed would make and paint the caskets and Aroha would supply the hardware and lining.

Shed member Peter Buchanan is also on the Board of the Rotary Club of St Johns/Ellerslie, and he agreed to take a grant request proposal to his Board. The application was approved so the material costs and overheads will be covered, and the caskets can be gifted. Ten caskets in three sizes are currently under construction. Douglas Ormrod is leading the project.

Canopy Completed

The canopy structure was finished this week thanks to the efforts of our construction team, Alan Minson, Phil O'Flaherty, Mark Nobilo, Denis Sullivan and all those who pitched in and helped. We celebrated with a wonderful spread of treats to complement our midday barbecue. Thanks again to all those involved.

Folding Picnic Table

David Blackmore just completed this great outdoor folding table made of Rimu.
The idea is for it to become a money spinner for the shed  if successfully sold

The Rebar Roost

Malcolm Hardie and his mates in the shed built this everlasting bird feeder out of steel reinforcing bar.
Even built 2 model birds to encourage others to visit.
Will look more cool as the rust develops!
Sits in anticipation in Malcolm's garden.

Pet Graveyard Markers

Another interesting project was these crosses for our little mates that have passed, engraved with pets names and dates. A great remembrance of those who have been so close.
Next on the list is a giant mesh wreath, designed to accept flowers on Anzac Day.

Abodo DOC200s Shipped!!

This has been our biggest environmental order and has proven fairly challenging. The customer wanted these 100 mustelid traps specifically made using their product and installed in their supplier’s forest in Hawkes Bay.
We had to take extra care laminating the boards together and avoiding splitting the timber especially on the lids where we traditionally use plywood. The treatment used by Abodo Wood Ltd is commercially sensitive so we’re hoping the long-term performance in the forest will be OK.
A test of our adaptability!

Busy board for Middlemore Hospital