Old abandoned tractor inside a dimly lit barn with wooden walls and ceiling.

LEIGH SAWMILL LOGGING HISTORY

Step back in time with us at the Leigh Sawmill Cafe Logging Museum and experience rich heritage of the old Leigh Sawmill.

The Leigh Sawmill, located in Leigh, a small town in the Rodney District of New Zealand, has rich history dating back to the late 19th century. Originally established to serve the local logging industry, the sawmill played a crucial role in the development of the area by processing timber from the native forests. It became a key economic driver, providing jobs and supporting the community.

Over the years, the Sawmill evolved, adapting to changes in the timber industry and local economy. In the late 20th century, as the demand for timber declined and environmental concerns grew, the sawmills operations were scaled back and eventually ceased.

Today, the Leigh Sawmill is no longer an active industrial site but has been repurposed as a popular music venue. The historic buildings have been preserved and converted into a cafe, bar and live music venue known as the Leigh Sawmill Cafe. This transformation has allowed the sawmill to remain a significant part of the community, attracting visitors and locals alike with its unique blend of history, culture, and entertainment.

A chainsaw in motion, creating a blurred, glowing effect with visible sawdust and sparks, cutting through wood.
Sunset over a coastal landscape with mountains in the distance, partly cloudy sky, and rays of sunlight breaking through clouds, with greenery and houses in the foreground.
A garden with rows of green plants and purple flowers in front of a wooden house with white-framed windows and a patio.
Close-up of a wooden barn or shed door with metal hinges and latch, surrounded by wooden walls and a wooden post.