A SUMMER SCHOOL - Bonsai for Beginners and Beyond - 19 to 23 January 2026

A practical journey into bonsai using Aotearoa’s iconic trees.

Join celebrated bonsai artist Peter Scammell for a hands-on, five-day dive into the art of bonsai—guided by the spirit of Aotearoa’s native trees. This immersive course invites you to shape and nurture your own living sculpture using Kowhai, Totara, and Pōhutukawa, while learning the philosophy, techniques, and seasonal care that underpin this ancient practice.

Each day blends demonstration, guided practice, and personal feedback in a supported and collaborative setting. You’ll explore the growth habits of native species, master pruning, wiring, and shaping methods, and learn how to design harmonious displays that honour both tree and environment. All tools, materials, and starter trees are provided—just bring your curiosity and care.

Whether you’re drawn to bonsai for its meditative calm, artistic challenge, or ecological connection, this course offers everything you need to begin your own native bonsai journey.

5 Days
Monday 19 January to Friday 23 January 2026
10 am to 4 pm
$595

 If enrolments are low prior to the start date of your course, we will advise you and there will be a full refund. We prefer not to cancel the class until absolutely necessary.

Once you are enrolled we will send you further information about this course via email, please ensure you check your emails, including spam and junk.

 Should you need to withdraw from a course the following will apply:

·       More than 7 days before the course starts, a refund of 90% of the course fee will be given

·        Less than 7 days before the course starts, a refund of 50% of the course fee will be given

·        On the day the course starts or after commencement no refund will be given

 You will be asked to complete an evaluation form at the end of your course.  Your evaluation assists us to improve our service and provide feedback to our funders, who enable us to maintain fees at an affordable level.

For enquiries please contact us on 06 345 4717 or email us at admin@communityeducation.nz