A-Z - All Our Courses

Learn basic drawing skills using pencils, charcoal and watercolour pencils. Create colourful graphic images with both oil pastels or soft pastels. Paint with Acrylics to portray images using a watercolour glaze technique or use thick Impasto Acrylic paint like oils. Students will need to purchase their own acrylics and brushes at approximately $30.

Fees: NZ$135

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After amazing feedback from students last term, we are repeating this one day course! Do you think it's hard to paint with watercolour? It sure can be if you don't know how. I can teach you how! In one day we cover some fundamental techniques that enable you to paint subtle lights, solid mid tones and luscious darks without any brush marks, patchiness or those pesky cauliflowers. You can do it when you understand the beautiful nature of watercolour which is to flow...you will also experience a bit of right hemispheric creative play!

Fees: NZ$90 - see equipment list and BYO lunch

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The Bible is the best selling book of all time. This is a non denominational introduction to the Bible for anyone interested in this unique book. It explores the origin and history of the Bible, its authorship, reliability in textual transmission and translation accuracy. We examine Biblical inspiration, what the overall message of the the Bible is, whether Jesus Christ was a real person and explore some keys to make reading the Bible easier.

Fees: NZ$60

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Bollywood Dance is a combination of traditional and modern free style dancing with exciting music, which is choreographed to get the full benefit of dancing as well as helping to shape and tone your body. This is suitable for any age group and improves your flexibility and stamina.

Fees: NZ$80
Fees: NZ$60 - same person taking second fitness class in same term

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Crochet is an activity that settles your mind and is relaxing too. Crochet and the repetitive movements help the brain make more serotonin, which helps to decrease feelings of depression. Learn to crochet by making little projects (a flower keychain, bracelet and granny squares). Learn about different stitches and notations and how to read patterns & diagrams. Crochet is a relaxing and fun craft to learn, you can make awesome things for yourself or join a community craft group and crochet for a cause!

Fees: NZ$75

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Cushions are integral to adding comfort, texture and colour to any room and it is so easy to make your own. This day long workshop will cover some basics of sewing and how to sew your own cushion covers. For those new to sewing we will make a simple cover with no closures and for those more experienced we can add closures, or even sew up a squab. At the end of the day you should leave with at least one completed cushion and the confidence to make more on your own. Sewing machines and tools will be provided, however students are to supply their own materials. If you wish to bring in your own sewing machine you may but please bring the user manual along as well.

Fees: NZ$80 - Bring your own fabric, cotton, cushion insert and zip if needed

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Discover the exciting world of digital printing with our Digital Printing course — no previous experience required! This hands-on course is perfect for anyone in the community looking to learn practical digital printing skills for personal projects, employment, or small business ventures. You’ll gain confidence operating home and office digital printing equipment while creating your own projects, such as greeting cards, business cards, letterheads, brochures, and receipt books. Along the way, you'll also explore how digital printing technology is used across various industries today. Whether you're exploring a new hobby, looking to boost your job skills, or preparing to start your own business, this course offers valuable, easy-to-learn skills that you can put to use right away. Join us and bring your creative ideas to life

Fees: NZ$145 - Please bring your own device, printer will be provided

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Want to learn something spooky? Come and spend the morning with us as you learn some cool Halloween face paint designs to impress your kids,and friends.

Fees: NZ$65 - Fee includes a basic paint kit

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Learn how to face paint using the materials provided in the course. You will learn skills so that you can paint children for parties or your own kids or grandkids. You will learn how to load paint, blending with sponges, brush stroke techniques, and three designs a tiger, a spiderman/superhero design and a rainbow flowers design

Fees: NZ$125 - Includes basic face painting kit

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Are you looking to make your property more comfortable year-round, save on energy and watercosts, improve health, increase resilience and reduce your environmental impact? Join us for an insightful course led by enviro-focused renovator, investor and Property Manager, Jackie Thomas-Teague. Feedback from the last course: Great to be able to plan ahead and prioritise home improvements. Helped to understand what gives the greatest benefit. Jackie has great all round knowledge of the property market.

Fees: NZ$30

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Samoan Language is amazingly easy to learn. Learn to understand and use familiar Samoan everyday expressions. Learn about the culture of Samoa. A condition of enrolment on this course is that you will attend at least 80% of the sessions. At the first class, you will need to provide your National Student Number (NSN) or, if you don't have one, please bring your passport or birth certificate as proof of your NZ citizenship or residency.

Fees: NZ$75

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This course will show beginners how to form basic chords and use them to accompany a range of songs. Students will learn several different strums and a simple but effective finger picking technique. Bring your own guitar. Intermediate students will work on the same material, but learning and using more advanced playing methods. You will have at least one hour tutor contact time with beginners and intermediate split into different sessions on the first night.

Fees: NZ$135

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Come along to a masterclass in high tea from decorations to food to etiquette. If you've always wanted to host a special morning or afternoon tea then you'll love this class where we will cover all the bases from basic on a budget to going all out for a loved one's birthday and the sky's the limit.

Fees: NZ$70 - fee includes ingredients

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Once you can knit and purl you will want to be able to add more interest to your knitting? This course will look at techniques that add shape and interest to your knitting and can turn a plain piece of knitting into something that makes people go wow. We will make a series of squares looking at increasing and decreasing, lace, cables and using more than one colour. They may sound scary but the basics are easier than you think. Once you master the basics, these techniques follow on. Students will need to bring: yarn (dk or 8ply for preference) in a couple of contrasting colours, a pair of 4mm needles (or size to suit yarn) cable needle (a short double pointed needle capable of holding a few stitches) The cable needle won't be needed for the first week.

Fees: NZ$115 - Bring your own materials as per course description

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If you are a landlord, you’ve faced a lot of changes. This class will help you sharpen up your performance as a landlord so you are getting the best from your property investment AND being a great landlord to your tenants. Jackie Thomas-Teague is an experienced landlord, property manager, teacher, and recognised in the Rent Skills Highly Commended category 2023 (formerly ‘Landlord of the Year’) and will help you deal with tricky areas, things you don’t enjoy, or are not confident about, as well as making sure you are meeting all your obligations. This is a safe environment to talk about all things landlord-related, so no matter your experience and skill level, you are bound to get something valuable out of it, and have fun doing it. Jackie welcomes questions before class so she can tailor the content to match your specific needs’.

Fees: NZ$120

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An introductory course in Te Reo. This course is aimed at people who are beginning their reo māori journey. A condition of enrolment on this course is that you will attend at least 80% of the sessions. At the first class, you will need to provide your National Student Number (NSN) or, if you don't have one, please bring your passport or birth certificate as proof of your NZ citizenship or residency.

Fees: NZ$75

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**THIS COURSE IS NOW FULL** Making silver rings and things…..learn a range of jewellery making techniques including forming, shaping, soldering, texturing, sawing, filing and finishing. The emphasis is on practical skills leading to finished items of jewellery. The silver for a ring and a bangle is included in the course costs as is copper to practice with, saw blades, solder etc. Silver to make additional items can be purchased at a reasonable price. All tools are provided. No previous experience necessary. We will be working with hot metal and tools so workshop clothing and covering footwear please; no open shoes, slides, sandals or jandals allowed. This is for your safety in the workshop.

Fees: NZ$180 - Includes materials for ring and bangle

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You’ve made a ring and a bangle so how do you extend your skills? Stone setting is one of the most fun things you can do in a jewellery workshop – it’s a little bit magic, a little bit precision and one of the best ways to grow your skills. This is a one-day class where your creativity and all the techniques you learnt previously come together. We will be making a stone setting, and developing this into a finished piece, a ring or a pendant, and wearing it home. Silver, stones and cords are included in the course costs as is copper to practice with, saw blades, solder etc. All tools are provided. You must have completed the Beginners workshop to undertake this class. Returning students welcome. We will be working with hot metal and tools so workshop clothing and covering footwear please; no open shoes, slides, sandals or jandals allowed. This is for your safety in the workshop.

Fees: NZ$180 - includes some silver

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Learn to use the musical keyboard. One hour individual and group tuition plus practice time using the schools' electronic keyboards. Usually split into 2 groups with start times of either 6.30 or 7.30pm. Please bring your own headphones.

Fees: NZ$135

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This class is for those who have completed level 1A,1B & 1C ie 24 weeks or completed the first 9 units. A condition of enrolment on this course is that you will attend at least 80% of the sessions. At the first class, you will need to provide your National Student Number (NSN) or, if you don't have one, please bring your passport or birth certificate as proof of your NZ citizenship or residency.

Fees: NZ$75

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The Tawa Orchestra is a community orchestra that attracts players of all ages and walks of life. No audition required – minimum standard Grade V. You will learn the dynamics of being part of a full orchestra including rehearsal techniques, sectionals, and performance. The Tawa Orchestra will perform at least 2 concerts throughout the year and may include collaborations with other community groups and visiting artists. New members can join at any time. Inquire about the fee if you are starting during the year. There will be 2 concerts during 2025 - 25th May and 23rd November

Fees: NZ$250

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Discover the hidden beauty of native plant fibre and learn how to make your own harakeke paper from scratch. Following an introduction to basic papermaking techniques, participants will hone their skills through several projects including sheets of paper, cards, letter writing stationery and more. In addition to the practical skills, the workshop will cover technical aspects of preparing your own pulp using simple household appliances and commonly found plants. Finished harakeke paper typically has a light straw colour and its own unique texture and feel. The paper is suitable for a wide range of uses. All paper produced during the workshop will be pressed and dried by the tutor and sent out to participants 2-3 weeks after the workshop.

Fees: NZ$130 - Fee includes all materials

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Pilates is a blend of physical and mental workouts helping you to increase your flexibility and core strength, and improve your posture. The course is suitable for beginners and those who have not done an exercise programme before.

Fees: NZ$80
Fees: NZ$60 - same person taking second fitness class in same term

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This class is held at the Tawa Community Centre in Oxford Street. Pilates is a blend of physical and mental workouts helping you to increase your flexibility and core strength, and improve your posture. This class is suitable for all levels.

Fees: NZ$80
Fees: NZ$60 - same person taking second fitness class in same term

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Pilates is a blend of physical and mental workouts helping you to increase your flexibility and core strength, and improve your posture. The course is suitable for beginners and those who have not done an exercise programme before.

Fees: NZ$80
Fees: NZ$60 - same person taking second fitness class in same term

Click here for more information on this course or to enrol

Pilates is a blend of physical and mental workouts helping you to increase your flexibility and core strength, and improve your posture.

Fees: NZ$80
Fees: NZ$60 - same person taking second fitness class in same term

Click here for more information on this course or to enrol

Pilates is a blend of physical and mental workouts helping you to increase your flexibility and core strength, and improve your posture. The course is suitable for those who have done a Pilates class before.

Fees: NZ$80
Fees: NZ$60 - same person taking second fitness class in same term

Click here for more information on this course or to enrol

**THIS COURSE IS NOW FULL** Introduction to hand building with clay. Techniques covered are pinch pots, coils, slab work and glazing. It should be noted that glazing will be done on the 3rd June so it is important that students are able to attend on that evening as there are no alternative opportunities to glaze work. We will all be using the same clay. Clay, firing costs, and glazing materials are extra. Please bring $60 materials deposit payable in cash to the tutors on the first night. (This fee is an estimate only as clay costs and firing fees can change at short notice. Some students may not use all this deposit however productive students may be required to pay more) This class is held at Gear Homestead Woolshed Potters rooms, Gear Homestead, Okowai Road Porirua and is for ADULTS ONLY.

Fees: NZ$235

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**THIS COURSE IS NOW FULL** For beginner and those who have already completed a Hand Building class and wish to extend their skills. Techniques covered are pinch pots, coils, slab work and glazing. It should be noted that glazing will be done on the 12th August so it is important that students are able to attend on that evening as there are no alternative opportunities to glaze work. We will all be using the same clay. Clay, firing costs, and glazing materials are extra and will vary depending on how productive you are. Please bring $60 materials deposit payable in cash to the tutors on the first night. (some students may not use all this deposit however productive students may be required to pay more) This class is held at Gear Homestead Woolshed Potters rooms, Gear Homestead, Okowai Road Porirua and is for ADULTS ONLY.

Fees: NZ$235

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**THIS COURSE IS NOW FULL** Must have done a previous intermediate course or 2 beginner classes or have equivalent throwing experience. The aim of the course is to extend students who can already centre and throw a basic cylinder, and will provide tuition to begin making pieces that are larger and with more complex shapes, such as vases, jugs, pots with lids and types of serving dishes. Please note that glazing will be done on the final week, so it is essential that students can attend on that evening as there are no alternative opportunities to glaze work. The costs for clay, firing and glazing materials are extra and will vary depending on how much a student makes. Please bring $60 materials deposit payable in cash to the tutor on the first night. Some students may not use all this deposit however productive students may be required to pay more. This class is held at Gear Homestead Woolshed Potters clubrooms, Gear Homestead, Okowai Road Porirua and is for ADULTS ONLY.

Fees: NZ$235

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**THIS COURSE IS NOW FULL** This class is an introduction to throwing clay on a pottery wheel. Students learn to centre clay on the wheel and the basics of throwing the foundation shapes of cylinders and bowls. Please note that glazing will be done on the final week, 30 June. so it is essential that students can attend on that evening as there are no alternative opportunities to glaze work. The costs for clay, firing and glazing materials are extra and will vary depending on how much a student makes. Please bring $60 materials deposit payable in cash to the tutor on the first night. Some students may not use all this deposit however productive students may be required to pay more. This class is held at Gear Homestead Woolshed Potters clubrooms, Gear Homestead, Okowai Road Porirua and is for ADULTS ONLY.

Fees: NZ$235

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Reiki is a Japanese technique, which promotes relaxation, stress relief and it helps the body's natural ability to heal itself.

Fees: NZ$80

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This 3-hour, self-defense essentials workshop is designed for beginners of all fitness levels, and will provide you with a fun and useful introduction to the fundamentals of the IKMF Krav Maga civilian self-defense curriculum. Whether you have previous martial arts experience or are brand new to self-defense, this workshop will provide you with practical, easy-to-learn techniques that can help you protect yourself in a dangerous or violent situation. By the end of the workshop you’ll leave with the confidence to take action and to effectively respond in a situation, rather than feeling helpless. In this workshop, you will learn: The essential principles of developing a self-defense mindset, including how to use controlled aggression as a tool to defend against violence. We’ll also discuss the key practical, psychological, and legal considerations you need to keep in mind when defending yourself. Simple but effective strikes designed for real-world self-defense situations. Reflexive blocking and deflection techniques that are intuitive and easy to practice. How to use everyday, common objects as self-defense tools in unexpected situations. How to prevent and escape some of the most common self-defense problems. Krav Maga is a highly effective self-defense system that was originally developed for military use but has since been adapted to suit the unique needs of various groups, including law enforcement, VIP protection teams, civilians, women, children, and people with physical disabilities. Known for its practicality and ease of learning, Krav Maga is designed to help individuals of all backgrounds and abilities protect themselves with confidence. The civilian version of Krav Maga, in particular, emphasizes minimizing harm to yourself, quickly neutralizing threats, and escaping to safety as soon as possible. It’s a system built on simple, straightforward techniques that anyone can learn and apply. Whether you're looking to build confidence and feel more empowered or simply want to feel more prepared in everyday situations, this workshop is for you. We look forward to having you with us!

Fees: NZ$60

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This class is for people who are wanting to gain confidence with a sewing machine. Week 1 make a pin cushion; all the materials are supplied. Then week 2 start a shopping bag.. When your bag is complete you will be encouraged to choose another project that will help develop your sewing skills. This can include cushions, apron, double oven gloves, pot plant holders, pillowcases, kids shorts. This class is suitable for ESOL learners and the absolute beginner. You have the option of using a college Bernina Sewing machine or bring your own machine after the first 2 weeks and we can look at how to thread. At the first class, you will need to provide your National Student Number (NSN) or, if you don't have one, please bring your passport or birth certificate as proof of your NZ citizenship or residency.

Fees: NZ$75

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This Fan form is very popular in Asean countries early morning exercise in the park. It is a gift from Chinese culture and a jewel to last for a very long time. This is an active form. Just right for active people. You learn to use the Fan and your body together. You learn as a group and learn to move together. It is visually quite a party activity. Learning is a challenge initially, but going past the challenge it is exhilarating and very enjoyable. It is healthy for those who need to move their legs, arms and body more. It helps you keeping your mind present in each moment in the fan form. Helps you have a moment to yourself and find peace. Come and learn. These Lessons will be at the group's pace. Everyone will be provided with a Fan to borrow or buy.

Fees: NZ$80
Fees: NZ$60 - second fitness class taken in the same term

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The single straight sword has historically been a Tai Chi weapon and is very popular with Tai Chi practitioners. This class will experience sword basics and will begin a simplified sword form. Practice swords made of wood or plastics will be provided.

Fees: NZ$80
Fees: NZ$60 - Same person taking second fitness class in the same term.

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Tai Chi is an exciting, fun, exercise for your body and mind. This is the art and exercise that the Chinese have been practicing to keep healthy. flexible, balanced, active, sociable and youthful.

Fees: NZ$80
Fees: NZ$60 - same person taking second fitness class in same term

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This is for those who had taken the Beginners Taichi course for two terms and would like to improve, refine and develop their physical knowledge about taiChi. This class will concentrate on contemporary hand forms. Taichi is an exciting, fun, exercise for your body and mind.This is the art and exercise that the Chinese have been practicing to keep healthy. flexible, balanced, active,sociable and youthful. For those who have attended Tai Chi before this is an opportunity to extend your skills and knowledge.

Fees: NZ$80
Fees: NZ$60 - same person taking second fitness class in the same term

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In this course enjoy new flavor, New recipes. indulge in creating amazing dishes. How about making your own poppadom's from scratch. Cheese with Broccoli Tikki's, Bhuna Gosh (Lamb cooked Twice), Spicy Pork with Mango Salsa, Prawn or Chicken Jalfrezi, Hard boiled Eggs in Mughlai Sauce, Vegetable dahl with coconut, Carrot, Apricot and Raisin Pilau, Roti Chanai (flaky Pastry), Onion Paratha.

Fees: NZ$140 - Fee includes ingredients

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This course will show beginners how to form basic chords and use them to accompany a range of songs. Students will learn several different strums to suit slow, medium and faster tunes. Intermediate students will be able to learn new ways to get the best out of your ukulele Bring your own ukulele. You will have at least one hour tutor contact time with beginners and intermediate split into different sessions on the first night.

Fees: NZ$135

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These dishes can be enjoyed for any meal and will be taught by a Vietnamese chef with a passion for authentic cooking. The menu will include dishes such as savoury pancakes, wraps, rolls noodle soups and rice noodle salads. (This course is not suitable for vegetarians)

Fees: NZ$140 - Includes Ingredients, bring a container to take food samples home

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Fees: NZ$140 - fee includes ingredients, bring a container to take food samples home

Click here for more information on this course or to enrol

This course will include different recipes to the Vietnamese Cooking course. Dishes will depend on seasonal availability of ingredients but likely to be lemongrass chicken rice, salad, beef PHO, new wraps and rolls.

Fees: NZ$140 - fee includes ingredients, bring a container to take food samples home

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Learn wood working skills using hand tools and the type of power tools found in the home. Choose your own project at your level of ability and learn skills while completing the project. You provide your own materials. No recycled timber allowed. This course will be held at the Tawa Menz Shed Davies St, Tawa.

Fees: NZ$180

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Learn wood working skills using hand tools and the type of power tools found in the home. Choose your own project at your level of ability and learn skills while completing the project. You provide your own materials. No recycled timber allowed. This class will be held at the Tawa Menz Shed in Davies St Tawa.

Fees: NZ$180

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In this course learn about this web-based accounting package which is growing rapidly in use in the small business sector. This is a beginner course in Xero but you are expected to have some accounting knowledge.

Fees: NZ$95

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Graduated yoga postures to enhance health and develop and maintain muscle/joint flexibility. Breath awareness and control and relaxation for stress release.

Fees: NZ$80
Fees: NZ$60 - same person taking second fitness class in the same term

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Graduated yoga postures to enhance health and develop and maintain muscle/joint flexibility. Breath awareness and control and relaxation for stress release.

Fees: NZ$80
Fees: NZ$60 - same person taking second fitness class in the same term

Click here for more information on this course or to enrol

Zumba Fitness dance combines dance and exercise, reducing stress while enjoying great music and positive vibes. Sweat, smile and feel amazing with every move!

Fees: NZ$80
Fees: NZ$60 - same person taking second fitness class in same term

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Zumba Fitness dance combines dance and exercise, reducing stress while enjoying great music and positive vibes. Sweat, smile and feel amazing with every move!

Fees: NZ$80
Fees: NZ$60 - Same person taking second fitness class in the same term.

Click here for more information on this course or to enrol