Book A Stone Carving Workshop
Stone carving is one of those things that surprises people. Within the first hour, complete beginners are shaping real Oamaru stone into something that's genuinely theirs — and they leave with it.
I bring everything: the workbenches, the tools, the stone. All you need is yourself and a space to work in. I've been running workshops across Christchurch and Canterbury for over two decades — for private individuals, families, school children, corporate teams, community groups, festivals and tourists. Every workshop is hands-on from the start. No lectures, no slideshows, just stone, tools and guidance.
Adult Workshops
Whether you want to try stone carving for the first time or develop a skill you've picked up before, I offer private one-on-one sessions and small group workshops tailored to what you want to achieve. We work at your pace for up to four hours — enough time to get genuinely stuck in and produce something you're proud of.
I set up at your location, indoors or outdoors, and pack everything down when we're done. All tools, workbenches and Oamaru stone are provided. No experience required.
Pricing: Contact me for a quote based on your group size and location.
Children's Workshops
Stone carving is a fantastic activity for children — hands-on, creative, and genuinely satisfying. Every child works on their own piece from start to finish and leaves with something they made themselves out of real New Zealand stone.
Each workshop starts with a safety briefing covering how to use the workbench and child-sized tools correctly. From there, children are guided through cutting, shaping and carving their design. The results always impress.
Workshops run for a minimum of two hours. All equipment is provided — stone, tools and benches. Maximum 10 benches with one child per bench.
Pricing: $300 for up to 16 children. $20.00 per head for groups of 15 or more.
Learn more about children's workshops →
Corporate & Group Workshops
Looking for a team building activity that's genuinely different? Stone carving is creative, challenging and surprisingly absorbing. From the moment people pick up a chisel they're focused, problem-solving and encouraging each other — and by the end of the session everyone has something to show for it.
I supply everything: height-adjustable workbenches with a clamping system that holds the stone safely in place, all tools, and Oamaru stone for each participant. Within two hours, everyone learns the basics and leaves with their own finished piece.
Pricing: $350 for up to 8 people. $40 per person thereafter.
Learn more about corporate workshops →
Festivals & Events
Stone carving makes a wonderful addition to festivals, markets, community events and public programmes. Participants of all ages can have a go — it draws a crowd, it's interactive, and people walk away with something made by their own hands.
I've run carving activities at events ranging from small community days right through to large outdoor festivals. I handle all the setup and pack-down, and I'm fully self-contained. Get in touch to discuss your event and I'll put together a proposal.
School Sculpture Projects
Some of my most rewarding work has been whole-school sculpture projects — where an entire school community collaborates on a single large-scale stone carving that becomes a permanent feature of their grounds. Students from every year group contribute, guided by me throughout the process. The result is something the school owns together and that lasts for generations.
Past projects have included anniversary jubilee sculptures, values-based carvings and landmark pieces for school entrances. If your school is interested, get in touch to discuss what might be possible. You can also view past school projects here.
Tourist Bookings — Living Springs
Set in the stunning location of Living Springs, overlooking Governors Bay, I offer a special workshop experience designed with travellers in mind. Whether you're spending a day in Christchurch or a week in the South Island, this is a memorable way to take a genuine piece of New Zealand home with you.
The designs I offer for tourist bookings are chosen specifically for people on the move — small enough to fit in your travel bag, but still detailed and satisfying to make. You'll leave with something you carved yourself from natural New Zealand stone.
Pricing covers the workshop, all tools and materials, travel, and the venue fee at Living Springs. Contact me to check availability and book your session.
Ready to Book?
I'm based in Christchurch and travel throughout Canterbury. For all workshop enquiries — whether you know exactly what you want or just want to explore what's possible — get in touch and I'll get back to you.
For a multi-week carving journey, the night classes at Papanui High School run each term and are a great way to develop your skills at a much lower cost.