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Aotearoa’s UNESCO City of Design welcomes us this spring for a weekend celebrating letterpress printing, bookbinding and the wider world of creative publishing. Whether you’re an AHP or ABC member, a practising maker or simply curious about book arts, you’re warmly invited to join us in Whanganui from 18–20 September 2026
An overview....
The programme begins on Friday afternoon with special access to collection material at the Whanganui Regional Museum, Alexander Library and Sarjeant Gallery. Curatorial staff will share books, prints and publications that are not normally available to the public, offering a rare behind‑the‑scenes look at local archives.
From 5.30pm on Friday, everyone is welcome at the Rutland Arms Inn for an informal meet‑up — first come, first served, stay for dinner if you wish.
Saturday and Sunday start in a relaxed fashion with coffee or brunch at local cafés, perfect for reconnecting with old friends and meeting new ones. Saturday includes site visits, a workshop, the exhibiton and the swap meet and concludes with the Wayzgoose Dinner at the The Brick House Restaurant, complete with guest speaker and auction. Book on the registration form.
From 5.30pm on Friday, everyone is welcome at the Rutland Arms Inn for an informal meet‑up — first come, first served, stay for dinner if you wish.
Saturday and Sunday start in a relaxed fashion with coffee or brunch at local cafés, perfect for reconnecting with old friends and meeting new ones. Saturday includes site visits, a workshop, the exhibiton and the swap meet and concludes with the Wayzgoose Dinner at the The Brick House Restaurant, complete with guest speaker and auction. Book on the registration form.
Local highlights & art supplies
Whanganui offers a wide range of creative and cultural activities - see the suggestions in the full programme. Don’t miss a visit to Aotearoa Art Supplies, a local favourite.
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Studio visits
Throughout the weekend the following printmakers are opening their studios to visitors:
Christina Drummond — Friday 11.00–12.30
Jo Giddens — Saturday 10.30
Catherine Macdonald — Saturday 11.30
Christina Drummond — Friday 11.00–12.30
Jo Giddens — Saturday 10.30
Catherine Macdonald — Saturday 11.30
Getting there & accommodation
If you’re travelling to Whanganui and have a spare seat, or if you’re looking for a ride, email Alan at handcraftprinters@gmail.com and he will help connect travellers.
Accommodation options are plentiful - the Whanganui i‑Site may be useful when planning your stay.
Accommodation options are plentiful - the Whanganui i‑Site may be useful when planning your stay.
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Registration (new for 2026)
The new online registration form is now live. Registering helps the team plan for the curatorial talks, the social events, the workshop and the swap meet.
Registration fee: $15 per person (non‑refundable), payable when booking online.
Each registrant will receive two special gifts in their welcome pack:
* First Impressions — History of Printing in Hawke’s Bay by Laraine Knight* A freshly cast 48pt Italic ampersand
Registration fee: $15 per person (non‑refundable), payable when booking online.
Each registrant will receive two special gifts in their welcome pack:
* First Impressions — History of Printing in Hawke’s Bay by Laraine Knight* A freshly cast 48pt Italic ampersand
Find the full programme details here