Whanganui’s creative textile community will be in the spotlight this month, as local makers lead a series of live demonstrations at Whanganui Regional Museum during a major national textiles event.

The Costume and Textiles Aotearoa New Zealand (CTANZ) symposium will be held in Whanganui at the Museum from 8–10 May, bringing visitors from across Aotearoa to the city. Alongside the symposium, the Museum will host a programme of free, public pop-up sessions showcasing the skills of Whanganui makers and community groups.

Inspired by the city’s awa and its designation as Aotearoa’s only UNESCO City of Design, the symposium theme Haerenga/Journeys reflects the ways textiles carry stories of place, identity, and connection. The pop-up demonstrations bring that theme to life through hands-on practice and shared knowledge.

The sessions highlight the depth of creative talent within Whanganui—from fibre artists and quilters to embroiderers and repair specialists—offering visitors a chance to see these skills in action and meet the people behind them.

The pop-up makers sessions include:

Friday 8 May

• 2pm-4pm Repair Café: Local volunteers demonstrate how everyday items can be repaired and given a second life.

Saturday 9 May

• 10.30am–12.30pm Crocheting and Knitting with Bronie Crow: A relaxed and inspiring session for anyone curious about yarn crafts.
• 12.30pm–2.30pm Embellishments and Brooch Making with Patsy Trail and Trish Flutey: Creative upcycling and sewing techniques that turn simple fabrics into something special.
• 2.30pm–4.30pm Victorian Crazy Quilting with Christine Imlay-McLean: Showcasing the storytelling and craftsmanship of quilting.

Sunday 10 May

• 10.30am–12.30pm Spinning with Debbie Hunt: Visitors can try spinning and learn about fibres including wool, alpaca, and silk.
• 12.30pm–2.30pm Embroidery Guild Demonstration: Members of the Whanganui Embroiderers Guild share their skills and invite visitors to have a go.
  and
  Felting with Sue Shand: A demonstration of techniques in felt-making, stitching, and design.

‘These sessions celebrate the creativity that exists right here in Whanganui,’ says Cherie Johansson, Pou Maanaki / Public Engagement Lead at Whanganui Regional Museum. ‘They’re an opportunity for the community to connect with local makers, and for visitors to experience the depth of talent in our city.’

Open to all and free to attend, the pop-up demonstrations offer a welcoming, drop-in experience in the Museum atrium—whether for a quick visit or a longer stay.

With visitors arriving from around the country for the CTANZ symposium, the programme also provides a platform to showcase Whanganui’s identity as a creative city, grounded in making, innovation, and community.