Join us for a hands-on bonsai workshop and take home your very own starter kit — the beginning of a beautiful new passion.

Discover the art of bonsai, where nature is shaped in miniature and a tree becomes a living sculpture. This workshop will give you the skills to style and care for your own tree, guided by bonsai artist Steven Yin of MiniGardens Bonsai.

What began as Steven’s childhood fascination has grown into New Zealand’s largest bonsai and penjing nursery, with over 5,000 trees and the widest range of species. Since 2013, Steven and his wife Yulia have nurtured this thriving Wellington-based business and introduced countless students to the joy of bonsai.

Steven will explore both Japanese Bonsai and Chinese Penjing styles, along with the horticultural science behind growing miniature trees. You’ll see stunning examples of premium bonsai and learn styling techniques to help bring out the character of your own tree. Whether you’re drawn to the art, the history, or the calming process, Steven makes bonsai approachable and inspiring.

Each participant receives a tree and pot to work with during the workshops, along with the tools needed to shape their own unique creation to take home. Bonsai make stunning garden features or thoughtful living gifts.

Choose from two workshop themes: traditional Japanese Bonsai or New Zealand Native Species.

Limited to 15 participants per session.