The Adlington Post

In Australia there has been a considerable amount of research done into the health benefits of Men’s Sheds for members. Unfortunately to date little enquiry has been done in NZ relating to this field. However, in my discussions with MSNS members several of them have told me of some of  their observations and positive experiences at our facility. We have some 100 members with a broad range of backgrounds, political views, worldviews, and ways of doing things. We all realize that to make the Shed work it is best for us to be tolerant of others and non-judgemental. This does not inhibit freedom of expression on issues, but conflict is not an issue - unlike in the workplace where egos and pressures can lead to strains which may incite aggression or even bullying. “At the Shed I have found a  band of brothers” is how AB put it. Jeff keeps mum! Not all Sheds are this harmonious. On my 2013 Lower North Island Shed Tour several Shed bosses told me that members had come to blows. (see

Last evening on my way home from my (chilly!) afternoon walk, I checked out the trash behind the Hospice shop - and came away with a bottle of beer (!?) and a miniature Monopoly set - the houses and counters will make great earrings....

Hard physical work builds and sustains our society. Last week the contractors resurfaced the roundabout in Browns Bay. I was fascinated by the dance of the machines. Watch a professional road crew at work:

Derek Milne (“The Psychology of Retirement,”) discusses coping strategies in retirement - finding hope...or hopelessness. Read more on my retirement blog: @ Men's Shed North Shore, Auckland, NZ www.work-buy-consume-die.blogspot.co.nz

The Men's Shed North Shore finally has approval for a new 80sq m. engineering extension! See our June newsletter: www.mensshednorthshore.org.nz Above - Trevor examines the new floorplan.

The guys at the Men's Shed North Shore have been busy with community and personal projects: http://youtu.be/UrYKhbuTMm0

For the past year, members of Men’s Shed North Shore have been donating nails, screws and tools for a disaster relief project organized by myself, entitled “Pacific Neighbours”. Many hours of volunteer work have been put into boxing-up the nails etc, and refurbishing the tools: hammers, screwdrivers, saws, pliers, wrenches, files, etc. This week Kenny and his offsider from “Habitat for Humanity” came and took away over 250kg of building hardware and tools we have put together. These materials will be sent to Vanuatu - where they are sorely needed for the massive rebuild required in the aftermath of Cyclone Pam. Many thanks to all involved. It was a big effort, and a lot of work. See  more Men's Shed activities at: www.shedyarns.blogspot.co.nz