Christmas in Tasman wouldn’t be the same if it wasn’t for the Menzshed Waimea, who work all year round to give back to the community every festive season.
For the last seven years, the 140 men involved at the Menzshed Waimea have made all kinds of creations and props to be given or used at local community Christmas events.
This year they created a large wooden chimney that Santa popped out of, as well as a wooden letterbox that children posted their wish lists away in, for the Brightwater Community Carols in the Park event.
They also created the elaborate float consisting of an Elf House and toadstool garden, complete with a white picket fence, that was used in the Nelson Santa Parade.
“The float was a bit of work, we have had to rebuild the trailer with a new wooden deck and steel frame to start with,” says past chairman and member, Alan Kissell.
Throughout the year, the men invest time into making 800 gifts, which are handed out during the Santa Parade.
“It’s key for us to be part of the community,” says current chairman, Mark Nimmo.
“Handing out handmade gifts is a way we can give back, as well as show what we do here at the Menzshed.”
Wooden puzzles, trucks, trains, race cars, planes - and to the horror of many parents, wooden ratchet noisemakers - were cheerfully given out alongside Christmas-themed painted rocks.
Donated soft toys and worry worms were also given.
“The men enjoy coming together and using their skills to contribute to something, it’s great for everyone to have a purpose and this is one we enjoy,” says Mark.
