Building for the future

Tim Magill of Barnbuilders has worked hard to make his operation Northland’s pole and timber farm building specialists, knows what it takes to build a business literally from the ground up, and now wants to provide a live-in training centre to give others the opportunity to learn his craft.

His 70 acre block on Mountain Rd, Kaiwaka is steeped in historical significance through the kauri logging on Mt Pukekaroro during the late 1800’s and documented in Jane Mander’s books.

Tim’s vision is to have trainee builders and carpenters learn by doing – from re-planting native bush, through the milling process, to building workers huts and amenities, a tramway system through to commercial buildings.

“It’s a way to get unemployed people busy and interested in their district’s history, teach them carpentry and rebuild the future from the past,” say Tim enthusiastically.

Funding and consents for the project are currently being sought though it is hoped work will commence very soon.

Barnbuilders, plus the Training Institute will operate from the Mountain Rd Work Camp which will be constructed by trainees as part of their tuition.

Tim admits his is a longterm plan and an ambitious one but sees considerable benefit for the whole district from the point of education, employment and eventually a potential tourist attraction.