05/10/2026
I want to take a moment to describe what the Menzshed Kaupapa was originally about.
Before I do, I acknowledge the complaints that I have received about the behaviour of some of our members. I acknowledge that some of the behaviours have been challenging and not at all okay.
When you get old getting dementia or matewareware is common and also experiencing crippling pain can turn us into very grumpy people. This is not an excuse it is just an explanation.
I want to say Nga Mihi Nui to those of you who have taken the time to express your whakaaro about what has been going on at the shed and also for your pātai about how we could do better
Menzshed is actually a movement set up by two Australian woman about 30 years ago to provide a place for grumpy old men to go and share some bloke time and mentor a few young blokes. Good for everyone right? It was an inclusive kaupapa so if you were struggling with anything you were welcome with open arms and aroha.
The first shed in NZ opened in Hamilton in 2008 and a National Organisation was formed in NZ in 2013. Kaitāia opened in 2015.
As things often occur the original kaupapa was lost with loss of continuity and National organisations are often disabling rather than helpful as they try and exert control.
Grumpy old men dont always do well with change and the fight turns inward. We have had a bit of that at our shed. I acknowledge my own significant part of that.
I have cleaned the Kaitāia shed up and things have got moved and blokes couldnt find stuff. There has been some unhappiness. Then I involved others like Repair Cafe and the Hauora Hub. That caused stress.
MenzShed Kaitāia uses the shed we are in for about 5 percent of its available time capacity, most of the items within have been donated or purchased at well less than cost. Some donations have been worth tens of thousands.
It is unacceptable to me that a community space is not open and available to all to use. We have managed to do this with Kaitāia Repair Cafe for one day a month. Others must be welcome too.
Menzshed does not own the space at all. FNDHL do on paper at least. The whenua is not owned by anyone but FNDC and Manawhenua are Kaitiaki in a partnership of sorts. Kotahitanga 🧡
I acknowledge the patience and support of Northland Waste while us Grumpy old men work through our issues. I acknowledge the patience and ongoing support of our community as well.
We have done good work. Every single bloke at the shed has. Some of us a lot. Many people have been helped, often at little or no cost.
We will be inclusive. All will be welcome and acknowledged. The shed itself will be utilised much more often and much more extensively. It is a shared community asset.
We are Māori we are every colour under the sun and we all have good and bad days. Some behaviours must and will stop. There will be no more exclusiveness. Young and old will be welcomed no matter the colour of your skin and if you are having a bad day or bad time you can come.
This will be sorted and done by October 28 2026. The 191 anniversary of He Whakaputanga. Te Kara will fly again. Not just at the shed but around the world. We are simply a small part of a much much more nui thing.
Some of you know me as John Baird, some as Hone Karaka, some as other things that I will not mention here. I am Scottish, English, Māori and many other things. I am a Grumpy old man.
Arohamai Arohaatu Arohanui. The True North is on the rise. Kia Kaha. 🧡🔥🐦🔥
