End Grain Chopping Boards
Handcrafted End Grain Food Boards, Made in New Zealand
Welcome to Woodspark, where timeless craftsmanship meets modern kitchens. Each Woodspark food board is handmade in Matangi, New Zealand by Lionel Barkle, using only the finest American Cherry and American Black Walnut. Designed to last a lifetime, our boards combine beauty, strength, and functionality, the perfect centrepiece for any kitchen or dining space.
End Grain Excellence, The Art of a Better Board
Not all chopping boards are created equal.
At Woodspark, we specialise in end grain food boards, a premium style loved by chefs and home cooks alike. The end-grain surface, where the wood fibres stand vertically, is naturally self-healing, gentle on knife edges, and visually stunning.
Explore Our Range
While our passion lies in fine woodwork, Woodspark also offers a small range of complementary items — including imported Japanese knives and hand-made metal trivets, designed and crafted by Lionel himself.
Each board is a unique piece of craftsmanship: no two are ever the same.
The rich tones of American Cherry bring warmth and character, while the deep, luxurious Black Walnut offers timeless elegance that complements any kitchen aesthetic.
Crafted by Lionel Barkle, A Maker with a Story
Woodspark is the creation of Lionel Barkle, a craftsman whose journey began in metalwork and evolved into a passion for fine woodworking. After decades of honing his skills, Lionel now spends his days in his workshop, handcrafting each piece with patience and precision. As he says, he likes to “look at the wood, get to know its character before starting work.” That connection to the material, and his eye for detail, shines through in every Woodspark board.
Built to Be Used, and Admired
Every Woodspark board is made to be both functional and beautiful.
Lionel carefully selects each piece of timber, studying the grain and form before shaping it by hand. The result? A solid, weighty board that feels as good to use as it looks. Perfect for everyday food preparation, serving platters, or as a statement piece on your benchtop.
Available in both Standard and Premier grades, Woodspark boards are oiled, finished, and ready to use, complete with easy care instructions to keep them looking their best for years to come.
Quality You Can Feel
When you pick up a Woodspark board, you’ll feel the difference:
Hand-crafted in New Zealand using premium American hardwoods
End-grain construction for knife-friendly durability
Natural finish with food-safe oils and beeswax
Designed to last a lifetime with simple care
Ideal as a thoughtful gift or kitchen heirloom
"The board has just arrived and I absolutely love it! They go really well together as a set." Danni Burton
A few months ago, Danni purchased one of our Walnut food serving boards. She recently got in touch asking for another, the same elegant shape, but half the size. I crafted it to match and sent it off last week.
I really couldn't be happier – it puts a huge smile on my face every time I pass through the kitchen
I just wanted to let you know that the board came packaged beautifully, and is so amazing to see in person. The biggest issue was that it simply looked too beautiful to cut on! But I'm happy to say that after conditioning it overnight as you suggested, I used it to prep dinner tonight, and it still looks completely untouched. Thank you for including the wood conditioner. I'll be sure to treat it with love. I'm so, so pleased with the purchase.
Laura Yilmaz
I’ve just opened up the package and the dark food board is absolutely ‘WOW’ - I’m definitely keeping that board for myself.
Elaine Ngan
These boards make amazing gifts even down to the bespoke packaging once your board is finished
I had the pleasure of dealing with Lionel who made me an end grain board for a Christmas gift. He was extremely helpful in the process of deciding which grain of wood to pick, to picking out a board once it was completed, even how to take care of your board once in use. Lionel has a fountain of knowledge and knows his craft so so well. These boards make amazing gifts even down to the bespoke packaging once your board is finished is outstanding and you can see the time and effort he puts in to make them truly unique. They are one of a kind boards and his craftsmanship is top notch! Would recommend to ALL.
Olivia Gower
Care for Your Board
To keep your Woodspark board looking its best:
Apply the provided mineral oil/beeswax mix before first use and leave overnight
Wipe clean after each use — never soak or put in the dishwasher
Re-oil monthly (or as needed) to maintain its rich finish
With a little care, your board will only grow more beautiful over time.
Woodspark Suppliers
From Our Hands to Your Home
At Woodspark, we believe great craftsmanship never goes out of style. Each board is made with care, patience, and pride, a true reflection of Kiwi quality and creativity. Whether you’re preparing dinner or serving guests, your Woodspark board brings warmth, authenticity, and story to every meal.
