What Is A Makerspace?

MCHL Makerspace provides a dedicated space for creating with Makerspace equipment. While some equipment is accessible on a first-come, first-served basis, most require a reservation to guarantee availability when you plan to visit. This also ensures that MCHL Makerspace Staff are prepared for your visit.

To make a booking, please visit the bookings page.

You will be asked to select a time slot and to identify the machine you wish to use, or if you just wish to book time with a MCHL Makerspace staff member to talk through your project or learn more about the equipment or space.

Your booking gives you one-on-one time with a Makerspace Specialist. Booking times are for 1 hour and can be extended based on availability. Always reach out to Makerspace staff if you need a longer appointment, or if you have any special requirements.

Walk-ins will be accommodated to the best of our ability, but appointments will be prioritised. We ask that you book an appointment even if you’re well versed with the equipment, as this guarantees you time on the equipment.

Using the Makerspace to design your projects does not cost anything. Constructing, manufacturing or printing your projects has an associated fee for materials.

Charges are based on materials used. The Laser Cutter and the CNC have a $5.00 per half hour use fee if you bring your own materials.  Please consult our price list for more information.

There is no charge to use the sewing machine and overlocker.

The Makerspace welcomes everyone, but children aged 13 and under must have continuous supervision by a responsible caregiver (aged 16 years or older).

We kindly request all Makerspace users to show respect towards others who are creating, and to prioritize safety and responsibility when utilizing the Makerspace and its equipment.

Eating is permitted in Te Āhuru Mōwai but not allowed in the Makerspace.

The machinery is quite sensitive, and we need to look after it the best we can. You can drink in the Makerspace. However, please ensure that you are only drinking from non-spillable vessels.

We encourage creativity, what you can make is limited only by your imagination and how far your ability can take your imagination. A computer with Blender, Tinkercad, Silhouette Studio, and LightBurn design software is available for users to access.

Open-source files and images are also available in numerous repositories online:

• 3D print files in STL or OBJ format can be found on Thingiverse, Printables, or other online repositories.
• Laser cutter files and CNC in SVG or EPS format can be found on Thingiverse, or other online repositories.
• Sewing machine patterns can be found online, or in our magazine and book collections. You can also purchase patterns from Spotlight or the web.
• Vinyl and sticker designs can be found online or designed using Silhouette Studio.

We prohibit:

• The making of weapons or weapon components. Toys that don’t look real and don’t pose any threat to the safety of others might be allowed. Cosplay items also might be allowed. Please talk with MCHL Makerspace staff about your project first to avoid disappointment.
• The making of anything prohibited by law, including gang insignia.
• The making of anything unsafe, harmful, dangerous or that poses an immediate threat to the well-being of others. Patrons can make their own designed parts for vehicles, but must use at their own risk.
• The making of anything obscene, discriminatory, or otherwise inappropriate for a public environment.
• The making of anything that is in violation of another’s intellectual property rights. For example, the equipment should not be used to reproduce material that is subject to copyright, patent or trademark protection.

If you are caught violating these guidelines, you will be asked to stop your project. If you don’t stop, you could be asked to leave.

While Makerspace staff are knowledgeable in the use of our equipment, they aren’t experts or designers and cannot make/design things for you. But they are here to help you learn and get your project off the ground.

We will print 3D prints if the print files are sent to us as SLT or OBJ format (we will use our standard print settings for these). You can request a print by emailing mchl.makerspace@mdc.govt.nz.

If your print fails due to improper design, you will still be required to pay for the resulting print. If your print isn’t picked up within 14 days of completion, MCHL reserves the right to reclaim costs and put the print up for sale to the public.

We prefer that you stay and supervise your projects, however we recognise that some projects take a very long time to complete. Please arrange with Makerspace staff before you set off your project if you plan to leave and come back later.

The Makerspace is closed when it is un-staffed, so projects requiring long durations of printing time are safe inside the space.

The equipment in the Makerspace is purchased from reputable suppliers designed for public spaces. The equipment is maintained and cleaned regularly to ensure they are safe for public use. Some machines may require the wearing of personal protection equipment (eye goggles, etc) while being used.

Makerspace staff will advise if any safety precautions are required to be worn.