About
Hi, I’m Mac Robertson — the designer and maker behind every light at Lights by Mac. I’ve always been drawn to wood. There’s something deeply satisfying about taking a beautiful piece of New Zealand native timber — rimu, kahikatea, kauri, matai, pukatea, rewarewa or miro — and turning it into a functional work of art that brings warmth, character and joy into people’s homes.
What began as a passion for sculptural forms and natural curves has grown into a small workshop in Tauranga, where I design and handcraft every piece myself. Each light is made with care, attention to detail, and a deep respect for the timber’s unique grain, colour and story.
Why native timber?
New Zealand’s native timbers are rare and special. Their scarcity is exactly what makes each piece impossible to copy — when you own one of my lights, you can be sure that few others, if any, will ever have the same. Every light is made from sustainably obtained timber, with a producer statement available on request.
Unlike mass-produced metal or plastic fittings, no two of my lights are alike. Lighting should do more than illuminate a room — it should enhance it. That’s why I treat the ceiling rose or canopy as just as much a feature as the pendant itself.
From inspiration to finished light
All my ideas are my own, drawn from nature — a swirling mini-tornado, the curve of a wave, a cloud, a pattern in the sand, the simple elegance of a flower. I sketch, prototype and refine entirely by hand, with hand and electric tools — never a CNC machine — then finish each piece with a hard wax oil that brings out the natural beauty and feel of the wood.
Every light is then wired by a fully qualified, certified electrician, following every safety regulation in the book.
When I say handmade, I mean it — no CNC, just hand, eye, and a deep respect for the timber.
More than just lighting
This is a one-man workshop focused on quality over quantity. When you buy a light from me, you’re getting a genuine piece of New Zealand craftsmanship — designed and built right here in Tauranga, Bay of Plenty. I love talking with customers about custom sizes, timber choices and special requests, so if you have an idea or a space that needs something truly special, please get in touch.
Thank you for supporting local, handmade work. I hope my lights bring warmth, beauty and a little of New Zealand’s nature into your home.
Mac Robertson
Lights by Mac · Tauranga, New Zealand
Phone +64 27 227 3758 · Email lightsbymac@proton.me