Do I need prior glassblowing experience?

Yes, this workshop requires completion of the Introductory Weekend Workshop 1 to ensure you have foundational skills.

What ages are allowed to participate?

Participants must be at least 16 years old.

Are there any health requirements?

You need to be in good health, able to move independently, and have the ability to see and hear well.

Can I bring a camera?

Yes, photography is allowed but avoid using flash near hot equipment.

No, participants should bring their own lunch and snacks.

Are the two resident cats kept separate during sessions?

The hot shop is cat-friendly with two cats present, so if you have allergies, consider this before booking.

Mastering Glass Art: Weekend Workshop 2 in Rotorua’s Hot Shop

Rotorua, New Zealand, long known for its geothermal wonders and rich Maori culture, offers an unexpected yet captivating experience for creative adventurers: the Weekend Workshop 2 - Part 2 glassblowing course. Perfectly suited for those who have completed the introductory workshop, this two-day session provides a unique hands-on opportunity to elevate your glass art skills in one of Rotorua's intimate hot shops, guided by expert artisans.

Set against Rotorua’s vibrant cultural and natural backdrop, this course transforms the local art scene into your studio. Over two days and 12 hours total, you'll sharpen your dexterity and mastery with specialized glassblowing tools like tweezers, jacks, and marvers. Unlike typical workshops, this session prioritizes individual attention with a limited group size of four, ensuring personalized instruction and ample time to shape your creations.

Day one focuses on crafting delicate sculptural pieces—a flower and a bird—that build confidence and skill. By day two, the challenge intensifies with three vases, each demonstrating different techniques to design and shape molten glass. This progressive structure makes the workshop stand out within Rotorua's diverse outdoor and cultural activities, providing a deeply immersive link between traditional craft and modern adventure.

The hot shop environment is wise and warm—not just from the molten glass but also because of Kupe and Jeff, the resident cats who add an unforgettable charm to your creative atmosphere (cat allergy considerations apply). Safety is paramount; participants must wear protective, natural-fiber clothing and close-toed shoes. The workshop embraces inclusivity and ensures accessibility for anyone 16 years and older who has completed the initial glassblowing weekend.

Beyond the workshop, Rotorua’s unique geothermal ecosystem — with steaming vents and vibrant sulfur pools — creates an inspiring locale that enhances the artistic process. Visitors can also explore the nearby Whakarewarewa Thermal Village or unwind in local hot springs to complement the hands-on creativity.

For travelers looking to blend cultural immersion, tactile artistry, and a break from typical hiking or boating excursions, this workshop is a rare chance to craft unforgettable keepsakes in a local hotspot. Booking in advance is essential, and with only four spots per session, this is an exclusive experience that pairs perfectly with Rotorua’s reputation as an adventure and cultural hub.

Whether enhancing your skill set or seeking a new way to engage with New Zealand’s creative heritage, Weekend Workshop 2 offers a memorable, hands-on journey into the fiery heart of glass artistry.