Mānawatia a Matariki!  

As the Matariki constellation makes its annual appearance in our southern skies, come along on this special Live Day to reflect on the tenets of the New Year - honouring the past, acknowledging the bounty of the present while looking towards the future.

For an experience that honours tradition, creativity and connection, slow down and take the time craft your own pounamu piece with Christopher Mitch,  Auckland based, accredited Ngāi Tahu carver, and wife Emma between 10am-2pm.

From ethically sourced pieces from Chris' workshop, find a piece that speaks to you. Shape it with hand sanding and polishing assisted by Chris, and string it, ready it to be worn or gifted. Share kōrero and learn about traditional carving practices deeply rooted in tikanga. More than a just a workshop, this a quiet, personal journey with pounamu, reflecting on Aotearoa's most sacred stone and the rich cultural heritage it represents. 

Explore the historic buildings and gardens and discover the past in interactive demos such as butter making, candle making and Victorian school lessons. The coal range and bread oven will be fired up with the blacksmiths at work in the forge! Have a go at bookbinding or sewing on a hand-crank machine. Stop by the sweet shop for a supply of old-fashioned lollies and fudge! With crafts and games, this is a day for everyone.

Gather friends and whānau to spend time in a beautiful heritage setting.

Admission: adult $18, student/senior $14, child $10, family $46. Children under 5, members & annual pass holders - free entry. Pounamu workshop $10pp Book on Eventfinda.