Karawhuia Rōpū directors Melissa Keillor and Jocelyn Rikirangi. Photo / Jo Jones
Karawhuia Rōpū directors Melissa Keillor and Jocelyn Rikirangi. Photo / Jo Jones
What began as a small idea to teach a few women basic DIY skills has grown into a thriving community movement across Tauranga and Rotorua.
Now, the DIY Sheds Charitable Trust is preparing for its next chapter.
Founded by Jocelyn Rikirangi, the DIY Sheds offer people of all ages andbackgrounds a place to learn practical skills, build confidence, and find belonging.
“We’re about access,” Rikirangi said. “Access to tools, access to learning, and access to a safe, supportive space where people feel valued.”
The idea began in Rotorua in 2017, after Rikirangi noticed women wanting to fix things at home, help whānau, or simply feel more capable.
By 2019, the DIY Sheds Aotearoa Charitable Trust was officially registered.
The trust has since supported projects in Tauranga and Rotorua, offering courses for beginners, aspiring tradies, and anyone keen to learn while enjoying the social benefits of working together.
Early support from the Tauranga Men’s Shed at Tauranga Historic Village was pivotal, opening its doors three times a week for everyone.
“That support was huge,” Rikirangi said. “It showed people could see the value in what we were doing – not just for women, but for the whole community.”
While initially focused on women, DIY Sheds now welcome everyone aged 15 years and over, with volunteers often from trade backgrounds.
“The sharing of skills across generations and cultures is pretty powerful,” Rikirangi said.
Karawhuia Rōpū directors Jocelyn Rikirangi and Melissa Keillor. Photo / Jo Jones
Soon to be operating under Karawhuia Rōpū – “Give it a Go” – the organisation emphasises inclusivity, manaakitanga, and community collaborations.
This year, Rotorua sees a new phase, partnering with Vertical Horizonz to set up a trades training hub, and with BCITO delivering NZQA Level 2 Building and Construction training for 18 to 24-year-olds.
“That’s our core business,” Rikirangi said. “Trades training, delivered in a way that’s supportive and inclusive.”
Karawhuia Rōpū directors Melissa Keillor and Rikirangi are preparing a crowdfunding campaign to expand facilities, upgrade equipment, and broaden programmes.
They are also keen to hear from local businesses and community-minded organisations interested in supporting the kaupapa through sponsorship, materials, expertise or in-kind support.
“This is about building something positive together,” Rikirangi said.
“The community has supported us from the beginning, and now we’re inviting people to be part of where we’re heading next.”
