Makerspace NZ delivers the whole package

For Andy Carter and his students at Orewa College, the G960L: GEN1 laser cutter, supplied by Makerspace NZ, is a regular feature in student learning. “In Mechatronics and Product Design, as well as other subject areas, we use the laser cutter on a weekly, if not daily basis,” Mr Carter said.

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“Year 7 students use it to cut out small items using 3mm MDF wood, while senior students are using it to cut projects from many different types of wood as well as different coloured acrylic. They also scan cool images of their choice onto the exterior of projects. The Patu is an example of this, where they develop the Patu (Māori, club) and scan cultural images into it before sanding and applying wax and so on as a finish.”

The machine at Orewa College was supplied by Marcus Lund and the team at Makerspace NZ six years ago.

“Marcus and the team have been superb to work alongside. They offered quality training on the laser cutter when we purchased it, which included everything from how to set it up, the functions available, and key health and safety guidelines,” Mr Carter said.

“We chose Makerspace NZ because they were local, had an excellent track record and a comprehensive service and maintenance plan while always having quick and readily available spare parts and backups if and when needed,” Mr Carter said. “If ever we have had an issue, Marcus has always been very quick to either give advice over the phone or by email, or if needed, to come to the school and sort the issues quickly.”

Mr Carter said Makerspace NZ was one of the most competitively priced laser cutter suppliers on the market, an important consideration for many schools where budgets are tight. “We wanted the whole package, good price, excellent service, and of course a quality product. We got all of that with Makerspace NZ.”

The laser cutter is now integral to many areas of student learning and will remain a key feature in the classroom. “We have just put into the 2025 budget for a second laser cutter with Makerspace NZ, the new G960L:GEN2. Fingers crossed that gets approved!”