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Step beyond Rotorua’s geothermal wonders to explore the captivating world of glassblowing. This two-day workshop offers hands-on guidance for skilled beginners eager to shape stunning glass art in an intimate studio setting.
Step beyond Rotorua’s geothermal wonders to explore the captivating world of glassblowing. This two-day workshop offers hands-on guidance for skilled beginners eager to shape stunning glass art in an intimate studio setting.
Book with Amokura Glass
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Amokura Glass · Rotorua, Bay of Plenty
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.
moderate.
2 days (12 hours total).
Participants should be in good physical health, able to stand and move independently throughout the workshop.
Yes, this workshop requires completion of the Introductory Weekend Workshop 1 to ensure you have foundational skills.
Participants must be at least 16 years old.
You need to be in good health, able to move independently, and have the ability to see and hear well.
Yes, photography is allowed but avoid using flash near hot equipment.
No, participants should bring their own lunch and snacks.
The hot shop is cat-friendly with two cats present, so if you have allergies, consider this before booking.
Rotorua's geothermal reserves have been used by Maori for centuries for cooking and bathing, anchoring local traditions in the landscape.
The hot shop emphasizes sustainable practices by recycling glass and minimizing waste amidst Rotorua’s delicate geothermal ecosystem.
Amokura Glass is a Rotorua-based studio in the Bay of Plenty that teaches glass art through hands-on workshops and weekend courses. The studio offers a range of beginner-friendly experiences including fused glass ornament and soap-dish sessions, short blown-glass projects such as a 45-minute pumpkin workshop, a paperweight class with multiple designs and colors, and multi-day weekend introductions and follow-on intensives. Each class emphasizes personalized instruction with limited class sizes so participants receive one-on-one guidance from skilled instructors. Amokura Glass presents both glass fusing—cutting and assembling colored glass sheets and kiln-firing—and hot glassblowing techniques involving gathering, shaping, and coloring molten glass. Visitors can expect safety briefings, step-by-step demonstrations, and hands-on practice that result in finished pieces to take home. The studio is suitable for individuals, couples, small groups, and those seeking a creative addition to Rotorua itineraries. All workshops include materials, tools, and post-process handling such as kiln firing when required. Booking ahead is recommended to secure a spot in popular sessions. Safety equipment is provided on site.
Book with Amokura Glass