Welcome to Dusterwald Woodwork & Toys!
We are a small husband and wife run business, that’s passionate about making wooden toys and educational equipment inspired by the philosophy and teachings of Rudolf Steiner. My insight in these I first got when I worked as a 20 year old for one year in an anthroposophical family in Germany. As a life community they supported 20-30 mentally handicapped people.
Ten years on, after learning the trade as a cabinet maker and finishing my Master degree our little family with 2 children moved to NZ, where our daughter became part of the pioneer class of the Waikato Waldorf School. My wife and I created the first dollhouse for our daughter’s 3rd birthday, which in hindsight was the first step towards making toys and educational equipment our priority. 3 more of our kids were born, toys were made for them and all of us were strongly embedded in the community of our local Waldorf school.
Over the years I had a couple of spells being the school’s woodwork teacher and running the parent’s woodwork group. My wife being support and helper in the workshop as well as being a wonderful craftsperson herself, creating many beautiful dolls and craft items. We take great pride in our work and every item is handcrafted with care in our workshop from locally sourced or recycled native timbers. Our products are finished with natural oils, so you know that they will be of the highest standard.
Enjoy browsing our website and have a great day!
-Twinny Dusterwald.