Wooden picnic tables provide Refuge

A picnic bench project by ākonga from Otago Polytechnic’s He Toki Carpentry training programme will ensure families escaping domestic violence have a place to sit down and relax.

Ōtepoti-Dunedin Whānau Refuge approached the He Toki team, wanting to build a couple of solid outdoor picnic tables for people to use while staying at the organisation’s safe house.

“The project was so easy, says Refuge Practice Manager Claire Horwell.

“We reached out hoping that there might be some sort of collaboration, and to get this sort of outcome is pretty amazing.”

He Toki Trades Training is a dedicated programme supporting Māori and Pasifika learners, aged 16-40 years old to gain skills and qualifications, connect with iwi, and explore industry opportunities.

The He Toki Carpentry class of 22 ākonga were hands-on, designing and constructing the two large custom picnic benches.

The students joined with kaimahi outside Otago Polytechnic last week for the handover to staff from Ōtepoti-Dunedin Whānau Refuge, who say the gift will have an important impact.

“For us it means our whānau can actually safely and happily sit outside and enjoy some sunshine, and some downtime and normality to their lives when they’re in upheaval,” says Claire.

Kaiwhakatere (navigator) for Māori and Pasifika Trades Training, William Woolnough, says the project combined practical carpentry training with real-world purpose.

"This kaupapa strengthens community connections while giving our learners a chance to contribute meaningfully to a local cause," he said.

"PlaceMakers Dunedin came onboard with materials and support, making this a great example of industry and education working together for social good.”

Otago Polytechnic’s He Toki Trades programme began in 2019, and has trained 225 ākonga in the areas of Carpentry, Electrical (since 2023), and IT (2024 only).

Another 41 learners are due to start with the programme in February 2026 for training in Carpentry and Electrical Pre-trade.