Our on farm workshops
Workshop Topics
Foraging: wild edible and medicinal plants
Fermentation, microbiome and gut health
Medicinal herbs for winter wellbeing
Organic gardening with the soil food web
Thermal compost making, bokashi composting and worm farming
Traditional sourdough bread making
Natural cheese making with wild cultures
Make your own natural cleaning products
We also welcome group bookings. Please contact us to discuss topics and dates.
Workshop facilitator Cornelia Holten
Cornelia is an herbalist and slow food educator with a passion for simple living, DIY, herbs and self-sufficiency. A certificate in Organic Horticulture, the Soil Food Web, an Apprenticeship in Herbal Medicine and living on a farm in Pigeon Bay equip her with a lot of knowledge and experience with growing food and living a healthy life. She is teaching workshops on sustainable food systems, whole foods, fermentation, primal diets and organic gardening. A thirst for knowledge and a passion for new scientific studies keep her well informed on those topics.
Location: KoruKai Herb Farm is located in Pigeon Bay on Banks Peninsula, 1 hour drive from Halswell, Christchurch.
Access to the farm: The last kilometres to the farm are unsealed, but driveable with all cars. Parking is at the neighbouring farm right above KoruKai. The herb farm itself is terraced and sloped. There is no wheelchair access, but we have had people here with crutches and in their 80s and 90s. Sturdy footwear and comfortable clothes is best for workshops and farm tours.
Carpooling: A week before a workshop you will get detailed directions to the farm via email. A list of participants with email address and approximate location is also sent to you. You are able to contact people near you to arrange carpooling. Carpooling from Chch is generally not a problem and Halswell offers a great place to meet before heading out to the Peninsula.
Accommodation: There are a few B&B options directly in Pigeon Bay, 5 minutes by car from the farm. We recommend "The Red House", "The Mud House" and "Retro Hut". They are all available on Air B&B. There are also higher priced options available like "The Point" or "Pigeon Bay Lovers Paradise" just around the corner from KoruKai Herb Farm. Pigeon Bay also has a campground next to the rocky beach. It is located on Wharf Road with basic amenities (toilet, water) and no showers.
Akaroa is a 30-minute drive from the farm. It is a great option for a weekend away. This wee French inspired seaside town is great to explore on foot with lots of restaurant options and accommodation to suit every budget including a campground.