About Wacky Wood Works

My journey has been quite the adventure! After my school days filled with woodworking, I traded the shop for the open seas when I joined the Royal New Zealand Navy. There, I soaked in experiences from around the globe, learning valuable skills along the way.

Upon my return to civilian life, I dabbled in various jobs, from fruit picking to entrepreneurship with a motorcycle courier company (which we eventually sold). Eventually, I found my calling in the construction industry, becoming a builder’s hammer hand. From erecting silos to renovating homes, I thrived in the world of construction for many years.

A desire for change brought me back to my hometown of Dunedin, New Zealand, where I unexpectedly found myself drawn to the world of art and graphic design. Working initially for a local community newspaper and later a printing company, I immersed myself in the world of visual creativity. Simultaneously, I began laying the groundwork for my own small graphic design business, where I also met my current partner.

The purchase of our current home reignited my passion for tinkering and crafting. Whether it’s wood, metal, plastic, or any other material, I find joy in creating. Despite the less-than-ideal conditions of our basement, I’ve transformed it into my workshop haven, reigniting my love for woodworking that began in my school days.

Up until May 2024 I was full time employed as a plastic fabricator, crafting a wide array of items, from plumbing fittings to diverse creations using plastic materials. However, with a recent change in circumstances, I’ve transitioned to a new role in the tool section at Mitre10 Mega.

becoming a graphic artist which was a complete surprise to even me

So this is a hobby site, a space where I showcase my weekend endeavors to friends, family, and anyone curious about my projects. While I don’t claim expertise in woodworking or joinery, I often approach tasks in my own unique way, ultimately achieving the desired outcome.

Rediscovering my passion for crafting has driven me to create and tinker in my workshop. Through this website and my YouTube channel, my aim is simple: to inspire you and ignite that feeling of “I can do that too!” (and let’s be honest, you might even do it better than me… haha)

I draw inspiration from fellow woodworkers and makers on the internet and through the vast realm of Google. In return, I hope that visitors to the “Wacky Wood Works” website and YouTube channel, l find some creative spark from my projects. If my work resonates with you, please don’t hesitate to let me know. My goal is straightforward: to inspire others by crafting easy projects using wood, plastic, metal, fabric, cardboard, and whatever else sparks my imagination. Most of my projects are spontaneous, with only a loose idea of the final outcome.

Beyond woodworking, I have a range of other hobbies, from music and graphic artistry (which I pursued for 15 years) to motorcycle riding and indulging in a good Sci-Fi movie.

Warm regards,
Nighthawk