Luither Laurie Williams of Mangonui, Taipa, New Zealand. Building Ukuleles, Guitars and Mandolins. I live in the Paraoanui valley in the Far North of New Zealand’s North Island surrounded by native bush and farmland. It is off the beaten track; to get here requires a rugged drive on rough gravel roads.

Many of my favourite New Zealand timbers are not easily obtained and the stock I have is the result of many years seeking out rare and beautiful timber. Many times I am forced to mill the timber myself, breaking down logs with a chainsaw before re-sawing into billets to stack and dry.