Repair Challenge 2026 inspires

New Zealand’s love for getting hands-on comes to life with WD-40’s Repair Challenge. Running from March 1 to April 18 the challenge calls on makers, tradies, professionals and DIYers to showcase the projects that keep materials in circulation and extend the life of well-loved items.

Saving money, cutting waste, and taking pride in keeping tools, homes and gear in top shape for longer, the challenge is a global imitative that recognises projects of all sizes, proving that no repair is too small to make a difference.

“Repairing our well-loved items is not only about saving money and working towards a more sustainable future, it’s also about empowerment and self-expression,” says Malcolm Macnaught, Director of E-Products NZ, distributor of WD-40 in New Zealand.

“The Repair Challenge is the perfect opportunity to inspire New Zealanders to share their journeys in extending the lifespan of their tools, worn down equipment, bicycles or just about anything else and keep them in circulation for longer.”

Repair and maintenance pushes back against a culture of replacement. The latest Circulatory Gap report shows global material use continues to rise and only 6.9% of materials entering the global economy come from reused or recycled sources.

Now in its fourth year, the WD‑40 Repair Challenge has expanded its reach by partnering with Menzshed New Zealand, the not‑for‑profit network dedicated to hands‑on learning and community projects.

This year’s winner will take home $5,000 in cash, plus an extra $5,000 donation to a local repair initiative of their choice.

With over 135 sheds nationwide and roughly 5,700 members, Menzshed has become a safe space for people keen to share know‑how and rediscover the satisfaction of fix‑it work.

“Volunteer led initiatives such as Men’s Sheds provide welcoming spaces where people can learn practical skills, extend the life of their belongings and connect with others in their community,” says Macnaught.

David Broadhead, Chairman at Menzshed New Zealand sees more people are wanting to rebuild confidence in practical repair skills.

“Initiatives that encourage people to repair, maintain and care for what they own are gaining renewed relevance,” Broadhead says.

“The Repair Challenge encourages people to value items and materials, while challenging the throw away mindset. Our goal is to make repair feel accessible, so anyone can have the confidence to try it.”

“Men’s Sheds are about far much more than repairing broken items, they’re places where community and sustainability come together,” Broadhead says.

“We place as much importance on social connection as we do on environmental outcomes. For many visitors, it’s a welcoming space to meet others, share knowledge and feel part of something bigger.” https://repair.wd40.com/