Make It Fun / Creative / Connected / Happen / Whakatū / Nelson

June 2026

A curated month of hands-on workshops led by the finest makers, artists, and creators in Whakatū.

Join us for four weekends of learning, making, and finding your creative flow. We’re putting on a whole range of hands-on workshops led by the finest makers, artists, and creators in Whakatū.

Programme released 1st March

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What it’s all About

Make It Nelson is a month-long programme of hands-on weekend workshops happening across Nelson this June.

We’re bringing together experienced artists, craftspeople, and makers to lead practical sessions in studios and creative spaces throughout the city. I think it needs something like: From making your own coffee mug or leather pouch, to cheese-making and kim chi.

Make It Nelson is about slowing down, making with your hands, and going home with something you’re proud of.

Whakatū Nelson - Your Creative Winter Getaway

June in Nelson is famously bright, crisp, and perfect for getting creative in a cozy studio.
Our compact city is easy to explore on foot, meaning you can wander from a morning pottery session to a local café for lunch, and then on to a gallery or a seaside stroll.

Make It Nelson works perfectly as a long weekend escape, with workshops scheduled to give you time to create, explore, and recharge.

For more information about visiting Nelson see XXXXXX

The Making of a Great Weekend (how it works)

Plan your weekend:

  • Workshops run mainly across the four weekends in June to make your visit easy to schedule.
  • Choose your pace: A mix of half-day, full-day, and multi-day options
  • Mix and match: We use consistent session times so you can easily book multiple workshops over a weekend.
  • Dive right in: Most sessions are designed for complete beginners, requiring no prior knowledge or specialized skills.
  • All-inclusive making: All tools, materials, and consumables are included in your ticket price unless stated otherwise.
  • Take it home: Most workshops are designed so you leave with something you’ve made yourself.
    You don’t need any prior experience, just an interest in learning and making.

Our programme of activities

The full programme will be released in late February.
Expect a wide range of workshops with activities such as:

  • Clay and ceramics
  • Jewellery and metalwork
  • Textiles and fibre
    Woodworking
  • Food and drink
  • Outdoor and place-based activities

Workshops are ticketed individually, with limited numbers to keep sessions practical and hands-on.

Is this for you?

Make It Nelson is for:

  • People curious about making and learning new skills
  • Beginners wanting an accessible first experience
  • Couples or friends planning a creative weekend away
  • Visitors looking for activity-based travel
  • Locals wanting to do something different during winter

You’re welcome to come on your own or with others.

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What now?

Join the mailing list to receive the programme announcement and booking updates.