The roots of WoodenWares run deep in the southern Canterbury Region of New Zealand, specifically in the charming town of Timaru. It's where our journey begins, drawing inspiration from the picturesque landscapes and the rich cultural tapestry of this beautiful region. The Kiwi spirit of warmth, hospitality, and celebration is ingrained in every key we craft.

Ken, the creator behind WoodenWares, brings a trade background in Fine Art Joinery to the crafting table. With a love for the traditional artistry of joinery, each key is meticulously crafted, paying homage to the skills passed down through generations. This blend of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design results in keys that are not just functional but also works of art.

Beyond the traditional, my journey in crafting keys is fuelled by a passion for technology. Embracing modern tools and techniques, I infuse a touch of innovation into each piece, ensuring that your unique Key is not only a symbol of tradition but also a nod to the future.

What sets WoodenWares apart is the fusion of artistic finesse and a keen eye for detail. Each key is not just a product; it's a piece of art that tells a story. And when it comes to personalisation, we understand the importance of creating something truly unique. Your story, your Memories, intricately detailed onto a key that will be treasured for a lifetime. Together with MonaLiza they create the perfect team with MonaLiza bringing her background of Design and Creativity along with her industrial skills of operating and maintaining CNC machines and Laser technology adding precision and innovation to our already vast array of skills.

We’re also evolving with the next generation — literally.

Our daughter Mariah, at just 20, now leads our Graphics + Creative Division.
She lives and breathes modern design culture, bringing that Gen Z vision where meaning, identity, and aesthetic all matter.

She’s not just “making designs” —
she’s studying cultural stories, honouring heritage, and turning each key into something personal, emotional, and seriously memorable.
She’s helping shape the future of Key Design — where tradition and innovation meet.

And while Mariah brings the vision,
our son Carl (21) is the engineer behind the scenes — taking control of machining and precision cutting, ensuring every order is cut flawlessly and ready for its final transformation.

Together, the next generation is stepping in —
one mastering the art,
the other mastering the craft.

And that’s how a legacy becomes a movement.
A family business, built for the future.

Meanwhile Occy brings nothing to the table, has no skills, no desire to improve or help out in anyway. His main jobs are sleeping all day and eating whenever food is available while always providing emotional support.

Thank you for being a part of our artistic journey. At WoodenWares, we don't just craft keys; we craft memories. We look forward to adding a touch of island charm to your special moments.