The Aitkenhead Timbermill supported many whanau from Pokeno, Tuakau, Pukekohe, Meremere, Mercer, Papakura, Manurewa and Maramarua – a work bus picked up workers and would transport all to the mill. In most cases, the employment was the families main source of income. An awesome social club operated all year round leading up to the annual Christmas celebrations.