Our Story
The family out ziplining - always up for an adventure.
Grant & Fiona at a gangster photoshoot - a bit of fun from years back.
Holiday with the family at the Great Barrier Reef.
Who We Are
We’re a family-owned business based in the seaside town of Ōpōtiki, Bay of Plenty. For more than 20 years, Grant has been hand-carving timber signs for farms, orchards, schools, councils, businesses, cemeteries, baches, and family homes across New Zealand.
For years, most of our work has come through word of mouth, but in 2025 we decided to launch our own website to share what we do with more people.
Grant first discovered his passion for lettering and design back in school, and later worked in a sign shop in the late 90s. What began as a hobby soon became a lifelong craft, combining a love of words, wood, and creating something meaningful that lasts.
As a family, we also enjoy the outdoors - hunting, fishing, and spending time together in the Bay of Plenty.
The Process
Each sign is carved entirely by hand. No CNC machines, no shortcuts - just patience, skill, and attention to detail. Every slab of wood has its own grain, colour, and story, which means no two signs are ever the same.
The process begins with choosing the right timber. Macrocarpa is most commonly used for its strength and durability, with sizes ranging anywhere from 1 metre to 6 metres in length, and up to 600mm wide. For special plaques, like 21st birthday pieces, Grant often works with Totara when it’s available. Other timbers can sometimes be sourced on request.
Once the wood is selected, the lettering is carefully carved, shaped, and finished to bring out the natural beauty of the grain. It’s slow, considered work - the kind of craft that ensures your sign is not only functional, but a piece you’ll be proud to display for decades.
Custom Work
Every project is unique, and the possibilities are wide open. Whether you need a sign for a business, a farm gate, a memorial, or a special event, Grant can create something tailored to your needs. If you don’t see the exact option you want in our gallery or order form, simply get in touch with your ideas. We’d love to work with you to bring your vision to life.
