As more New Zealanders are choosing to repair not replace, a renewed pride in practical skills is reshaping how we care for the things we own.

From small household fixes to ambitious restorations, repair culture is gaining momentum as people look to save money, develop skills, reduce waste and extend the life of well-loved items.

To celebrate this shift, WD-40 Company has launched the Repair Challenge 2026, running until April 18, inviting doers, makers, fixers and professionals to showcase the repairs that keep homes, tools and treasured belongings in circulation for longer.

The challenge is a global initiative 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,” said 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 life-span of their tools, worn down equipment, bicycles or just about anything else and keep them in circulation for longer.”

Repair and maintenance are continually seen as both practical and empowering ways for households to push back against a culture of replacement.

According to the latest circulatory gap report, global material use continues to rise, with only 6.9 percent of materials entering the global economy coming from reused or recycled sources.

The report highlights that consuming recycled products alone is not enough anymore.

In response, repair is increasingly seen as a simple, hands on way individuals can make a difference.

Now in its fourth year, the WD-40 Repair Challenge has grown to support community-based repair initiatives, partnering with non-profit organisation Menzshed New Zealand for 2026.

This year, the winning entry will not only receive $5000 in prize money but can direct an equal donation to a local community repair initiative. There are also weekly prizes for the best repair.

“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,” said Mr Macnaught.

David Broadhead, chairman at Menzshed New Zealand recognises that increasingly 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,” he said.

“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

“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.”

There are over 135 Men’s Sheds operating in New Zealand, with a total membership of approximately 5700 “sheddies”.

These community workshops have grown from the first established in 2007-2008, to a network across the country providing space for social connection and community projects.

For more information on how to enter the WD-40 Repair Challenge, visit repairchallenge.wd40.com.au/