Creative Nature Journaling with Monica Peters

We’ll be capturing the micro and the macro details in our notebooks/journals as we investigate Atawhai Whenua, the nature reserve between Oneroa and Matiatia. Only a few decades ago, this fascinating part of the Waiheke landscape was a barren eroding hillside ending in a soggy paddock, but thanks to community effort, it’s now a thriving forest and wetland.    

We’ll start the workshop at Waiheke Learning looking at how artists and travellers have documented their experience in nature. We’ll then stroll to Atawhai Whenua where you’ll be guided through a range of fun drawing exercises. Using different drawing media, we’ll explore mark-making: sketching grand vistas, recording sensory experiences and exploring the reserve’s intricate details.   

In addition to creative nature journaling you’ll also gain insights into ecological restoration on Waiheke and learn about some of the plants and animals living in Atawhai Whenua.

What to bring and logistics

Wear comfy shoes for walking, bring sun and wind protection depending on the weather. Bring a notebook or journal and clipboard if you have one. Our walk will take us from Waiheke Learning through Atawhai Whenua and down to Matiatia – approx. 2km in total. We’ll follow formed path through the forest but there is some uneven or slippery terrain.

Buses can be taken from Matiatia back to Waiheke Learning or you can walk back (c. 20 mins).