Join us for this fun introduction to the highly addictive practice of nature journaling in Auckland Botanic Gardens calm and delightful Edible Garden. Take a moment to sit in nature and really observe. Feast your eyes and free your mind to wonder, to ask questions, to make connections. Learn to record your observations and deepen your connection with nature. Spoiler alert: it's all about immersing yourself and finding out what works for you.

PS No drawing experience required - nature journaling is for everyone.

Meet at the visitor centre to start (the workshop will be held in the Edible Garden with a wet-weather venue available too).

Max 15 people.

What you'll need:

A sketchbook with a hard cover, or softcover with a clipboard to lean on. (180gsm thickness paper is absolutely fine unless you plan to use a lot of water, in which case choose one with 300+ gsm watercolour paper)

Pencil, sharpener, eraser

Something to sit on so you'll be comfortable drawing outside

Sun protection and water bottle

Feel free to bring:

Your preferred colour medium such as colour pencils, watercolour paints, aquarelle pencils

We provide:

Guidance and an introduction to nature journaling and the garden

Magnifying glasses for a closer look

Colour pencils

Inspiring books

BIO: Your workshop guide

Jennifer Duval-Smith is an Auckland based botanical artist who would like you to experience the curious calm of stopping, looking and asking questions with a pencil and paper in your hands. "Nature journaling is your personal response to your environment. It combines the benefits of being in nature with a childlike sense of creative flow. In recording your observations with all your senses, you choose to capture a jewel of a moment in your long term memory. As a result you will start to appreciate even the humblest plant or creature and deepen your connection to nature."