The Selwyn Foundation was delighted to support Emeritus Professor Edwina Pio’s new research into the health and wellbeing impact of Men’s Sheds on their members in New Zealand. This study provides important Aotearoa-specific evidence of the benefits that Men’s Sheds offer and highlights how we, as a nation, can strengthen public health, social and ageing strategies by investing in proven, community-based interventions that genuinely improve men’s health and wellbeing.
Too often, men’s health does not receive the attention it deserves. Retired males, in particular, are among the least likely to engage with the health system, yet the statistics show they experience poorer health outcomes than women – suicide rates among men are nearly three times higher, with men over the age of 65 significantly affected.
Men’s Sheds offer a grassroots, community-based solution to these challenges. As this study shows, they provide a lifeline – a place of camaraderie, shared purpose, social connection and life-long learning. For many men, the Shed is more than just a workshop – it’s a place where they can regain a sense of identity, purpose and belonging. The peer support and companionship they find there not only improve their own mental wellbeing but can also have positive ripple effects for their families/whānau and wider communities.
Beyond friendship, purpose and connection, Sheds are increasingly taking a proactive role in health promotion. Men’s Health Expos hosted by Sheds around the country have seen significant numbers of health checks completed; in some cases, life-threatening conditions have been identified which have needed urgent attention, with lives potentially saved as a result. That’s why, in addition to supporting this new research, The Selwyn Foundation is proud to partner with MENZSHED New Zealand to bring more such events to Men’s Sheds across the country as part of our commitment to promoting wellbeing through interventions that are community-based and tailored to the real needs and lives of older people.
Improving men’s health requires a gender-sensitive, holistic approach, and Men’s Sheds can play a vital role in this. With greater support from public and private sectors and private individuals alike – through access to land, buildings and sustainable funding – they could reach more men and so deliver even greater wellbeing benefits.
As a champion of initiatives that enable older New Zealanders to age with dignity and respect in their own communities, The Selwyn Foundation commends this research to all those seeking to improve the lives of vulnerable older people, and of older men especially. We hope that it encourages a renewed focus on supporting the Men’s Shed movement, so that many more men can experience the life-changing benefits of being part of this close-knit community.
Executive Summary
This research investigates the significant role that Men’s Sheds play in enhancing the health and wellbeing of older men (primarily 65+) across Aotearoa New Zealand. As the country faces a rapidly ageing population and a growing need for inclusive, age-friendly spaces, this report evaluates how Men’s Sheds provide a critical community-based intervention that alleviates loneliness, supports mental and physical health, and fosters social inclusion and lifelong learning.
Context and purpose
Men’s health and wellbeing often receive insufficient attention in public health strategies. This issue is compounded by the challenges older men face post-retirement, such as loneliness, depression, and loss of purpose. Men’s Sheds offer a unique, male-friendly environment for shared activities, skills exchange, and peer support. MENZSHED New Zealand, a registered charity, supports over 130 Sheds nationwide. This study, modelled on a UK framework, aims to provide New Zealand-specific evidence of the Sheds’ impact on members’ wellbeing and inform social and health policy.
Methodology
The research used a mixed-methods approach conducted between November 2024 and March 2025. It included:
- Surveys (n=68) from four Sheds.
- Focus groups (n=38 participants) in Boomer Shed Manurewa, Kerikeri, Masterton, and Te Awamutu.
- Interviews with Shed managers and committee members.
Quantitative data employed the UCLA three-item loneliness scale, comparing pre- and post-membership experiences. Qualitative data explored motivations for joining, activities undertaken, and perceived benefits.
Key Findings
Loneliness and Mental Health:
- A significant reduction in loneliness was reported after joining a Shed.
- Before joining, 29 men scored high on loneliness (score ≥5); after joining, only 8 did.
- Qualitative feedback confirmed Sheds as vital for social connection and mental resilience.
Reasons for Joining and Staying:
- Men cited bereavement, retirement, and a desire for companionship as motivators.
- Many described the Shed as “a reason to get up in the morning” and a source of friendship and routine.
Activities and Skills:
- Activities included woodworking, metalworking, cooking, community projects, and mentorship.
- Sheds also functioned as informal repair shops and hosted intergenerational and school-linked programs.
Health and Wellbeing:
- Participants reported improved emotional and physical health.
- Men felt a sense of belonging and purpose, with many describing the Shed as “a second family.”
Managerial Role:
- Effective leadership was key to Shed success.
- Managers often worked unpaid and played a central role in member engagement and community outreach.
- Paid managerial positions are recommended for sustainability.
Future Opportunities:
- Future Sheds could evolve to incorporate new technologies (e.g. 3D printing) and more diverse memberships.
- Some Sheds are already engaging migrants and refugees, suggesting a path for broader inclusion.
Recommendations
- Increase Funding: Sustainable financial support is essential for operations, including paid managers.
- Promote Diversity: Encourage participation from underrepresented groups (e.g. Māori, Pasifika, white-collar retirees).
- Policy Integration: Incorporate Men’s Sheds into national health, social, and ageing strategies as proven community-based interventions.
- Support Research Expansion: Broader research across more Sheds will further validate the Sheds’ societal and economic value.
Conclusion
Men’s Sheds are a quiet yet powerful force for good in New Zealand society. They mitigate loneliness, foster community, and improve health outcomes for older men. This research clearly demonstrates the transformative impact of these spaces, underlining their importance in creating a healthier, more connected and age-friendly Aotearoa.
