Hanmer Spring’s Menz Shed creating more solutions than the internet

Down at the Hanmer Springs Menz Shed, Lester Truman goes by the name of Mr Google.

“We don’t need Google, we just ask Lester,” quips member Mike Shaxon.

Truman carries more blueprints in his head than the internet, Mike says, and is always quick to invent new ways of solving problems to help his community.

When the Menz Shed was approached to come up with a wasp capture solution, Lester had a think and came back with a quick fix that is affordable and practical.

“You take an ordinary 1.5L soft-drink bottle, cut it in half, invert the top into the bottom to create a funnel, put sugar water into the bottom – and wait for the wasps to visit,” Lester explains. The Menz Shed create the wooden frames to hang the bottles in trees.

“If someone comes to us, whether a school, community group or sports club, and asks us if we can make something — if we can do it, then yes we will,” says Shaxon.

Throughout the Hanmer Springs community is evidence of the Menz Shed’s contribution to their community. A shield for St John’s CPR challenge, a flagpole for the golf club, birdfeeders for the Hanmer Springs Conservation Trust, outdoor furniture – they’ve done it all.

The Menz Shed operates as a charitable trust and their assistance extends beyond the old Smithy building from which they have been operating for the past four years on Queen Mary Hospital Heritage Reserve. Stacking wood for an infirm resident, supplying firewood to those in need, building a wheelchair ramp, and making a step to help a valued pet get up into the house are all ways in which they have given back.

“We’re here for the community,” says Shaxon.

For members, the gains are camaraderie and support, says Shaxon. “It’s about supporting and encouraging one another.”

Shaxon says the Menz Shed is grateful for being able to use the old Smithy and for Council’s support over the years.

Hurunui District Council Chief Strategy and Community Officer Judith Batchelor said building strong communities through supporting community-led projects was a win-win for the district.

“Queen Mary Hospital has always been at the heart of the district and so many families have been helped by the original hospital for soldiers and the many projects that have been run from the site. It’s good to see activity at the old smithy and to know Queen Mary Hospital is still helping our community.”

$3.1 million was this year confirmed by Council for the restoration and earthquake strengthening of the old Soldiers’ Block building on the heritage site as part of an innovative project to create community spaces, acknowledge the site’s history and add to the tourism experience.