Here are some common questions about becoming a member, using the workshop, joining a class, volunteering and donating materials.
If you are new to Wānaka Community Workshop, start with Become a Member, Courses & Classes or the Workshop Schedule.
What is Wānaka Community Workshop?
Wānaka Community Workshop is a not-for-profit community space at 15 Gordon Road, Wānaka.
We provide shared workshop spaces, tools, equipment and support for members, volunteers, classes, repairs, reuse projects and community initiatives.
Do I need to be a member?
You need to be a member if you want to use the Wood Workshop or Sewing Room for your own projects during open member sessions.
You do not always need to be a member to attend a course, class or workshop, or if you wish to volunteer your time or skills. Each course listing will explain what is included and whether membership, induction or tool training is required.
How do I become a member?
Start by completing your membership registration and payment via bank transfer.
Before using the workshop, all new members need to complete a Health & Safety induction which is booked on registration. Some tools and equipment also require tool training or sign-off before use, booked once you have been inducted.
What does membership cost?
Current membership options and payment details are listed on the Become a Member page.
If you are unsure which membership option is right for you, please contact the team before joining.
When can I use the workshop or sewing room?
Members can use the workshop during scheduled open member sessions, when a supervisor is present.
Please check the Workshop Schedule before coming in, as session times, volunteer groups, private bookings, classes and training sessions may change.
Can I just turn up?
For volunteer sessions, you may be able to come along and meet the team, but it is best to check the Workshop Schedule first, and ensure there is a coordinator on site.
For member sessions, you need to be a registered member via the online form, and have completed your Health & Safety induction which is booked at set times (usually a Thursday afternoon or Saturday morning) before using the workshop.
For classes and workshops, please book through the Courses & Classes page.
What tools and equipment can I use?
The workshop has a range of woodworking tools, sewing machines, overlockers, hand tools and other shared equipment.
Some tools and machines require tool training, supervised practice or competency sign-off before you can use them independently.. If you are unsure what you can use, please ask the supervisor on duty.
Can I attend a class without being a member?
Yes, some classes and workshops are open to non-members.
Each course listing will explain who the class is for, what is included, what to bring, and whether membership, induction or tool training is required.
How do I volunteer?
Volunteer sessions are a great way to help with community projects, repairs, sorting, making and general workshop support.
Please check the Workshop Schedule for current volunteer session times, or contact the team if you are new.
Can I donate tools, timber, fabric or materials?
We welcome useful donations, but please contact us before dropping items off.
We have limited storage, and not all materials are suitable for workshop use. Larger donations, machines, furniture, timber, fabric quantities or items needing repair should be checked with the team first.
Can I bring children or young people?
Young people are welcome in some situations, but they must be appropriately supervised by a parent, caregiver or responsible adult.
Power tools and machinery have age, supervision and safety restrictions. Please contact the team before bringing young people into the workshop.
Can I use the workshop for a van fit-out or one-off project?
Yes, van fit-outs and short-term projects may be possible by arrangement. Space is limited, especially for vans, so please contact the team before joining or arriving with a vehicle. Membership, Health & Safety induction, supervisor availability and tool training requirements still apply.
The workshop is primarily a community space for members, volunteers, learning, reuse and community projects. It is not generally a for-hire commercial workshop. If you are unsure whether your project is suitable, please contact the team before using the space.
I have skills I could share with the workshop?
We are always interested in hearing from people with practical skills, trade experience, teaching experience or workshop knowledge who may be able to help with projects, classes, repairs, mentoring, training, maintenance or volunteer sessions.
This could include woodworking, sewing, metalwork, upholstery, electrical, building, design, repair, health and safety, tutoring or other practical skills.
If you would like to offer your skills short term or long term, please get in touch and tell us a little about your experience and availability.
Do you run school holiday programmes or youth classes?
Yes, we sometimes run school holiday programmes, after-school classes or youth-friendly workshops. These will be listed on the Courses & Classes page when available. Each listing will explain the age range, dates, cost, what is included and whether a parent/caregiver needs to stay.