NORTH ISLAND

2nd december

WASTE FREE LIVING WORKSHOP

Whether you have a big family, live by yourself or are flatting, this workshop will equip you with the knowledge, strategies and tools to significantly reduce your household’s waste production. You’ll also learn more about where your waste goes, and why making a difference is so important.

6pm–8pm. The Orchard Church, 20 Macloughlin Drive, Te Puke. $15. katemeads.co.nz

4th december

VEGETABLE GROWING WORKSHOP

Nurture your passion for gardening on this one-day course with resident gardener, Nicki Murray-orr. Learn a comprehensive range of skills and techniques to get the most out of your vege gardens. Topics include the basics of soil health, planting from seed, pest management, crop rotation, composting and worm farms.

9.30am–3pm. The Falls Retreat, 25 Waitawheta Road, Waihi. $150. fallsretreat.co.nz/the-full-monty

4th december

THE CHRISTMAS MARKET WITH A SPITTING DIFFERENCE

Stalls will be selling arts, plants, local produce, preserves, clothing, crafts, gifts and curios; there’ll be plenty of food and drinks options at the Cornerstone Kitchen; and, of course, the alpacas will be out enjoying the day too.

4pm–8pm. Cornerstone Alpaca Stud, 49 Peach Road, Gordonton, Hamilton. cornerstonestud.co.nz

4th december

CROP SWAP

On the first Saturday of every month, bring along your veges, fruit, herbs, preserves, gardening books and more to swap and share. 10am–10.30am. Project Generate, 14 Jocelyn St, Katikati. projectgenerate.org.nz/events 4th december

CHRISTMAS CRACKER MARKET

With Christmas just around the corner, there has never been a better time to support local, be ethical and shop sustainably. Also – not a bad opportunity to make sure you actually get your Christmas gifts in time. 10.30am–4pm. Sustainability Trust, 2 Forresters Lane, CBD, Wellington. sustaintrust.org.nz

9th december

2021 EDIBLE FASHION AWARDS

With 50 mind-blowing edible-inspired creations, intertwined with quality live entertainment from across Aotearoa, this unique and exciting annual event is a calendar highlight.

7pm. Toitoi – Hawke’s Bay Arts & Events Centre, 101 Hastings Street South, Hastings. $39, under-12s $20. ediblefashionawards.co.nz

11th december

ARTISAN CRAFT MARKET

More than 120 local stallholders present a wide range of New Zealand-made products. 10am–4pm. Lower Hutt Events Centre,

30C Laings Road, Lower Hutt, Wellington.

18th & 19th december

HAMILTON BONSAI SHOW

The Hamilton Bonsai Club is proud to present their annual show. Come along to enjoy a display of many bonsai trees! Need help with your own tree? Bring it to the show for advice and guidance.

9am–4pm. Hamilton Gardens, Hungerford Crescent, Hamilton. $5, under-12s free. hamiltongardens.co.nz/events