Welcome to Mahoe Hills
Creative Workshops
At Mahoe Hills you can learn how to make felt from alpaca fibre or merino wool. We follow the journey of the fibre from shearing to carding through to felting. The final result can be a bag, cushion cover, hat, gloves or scarf.
Mahoe Hills has a dye-garden and we teach a variety of eco-dye methods using leaves and flowers. We use recycled clothes and textiles as much as possible. An op-shop garment can be turned into a one-off designer garment.
Another option is to create a mosaic from recycled materials. We have an eclectic variety of tiles, crockery and ornaments to create beautiful mirrors, frames or pots.
We offer tailored full-day workshops for individuals or groups of friends and can cater for special requests and occassions. Click here for more info Workshops
Half-day workshops
We also offer half day craft sessions for individuals or small groups by appointment. In as little as 3-4 hours you can learn the basics of felting or mosaics and make a small item. Our craft sessions are popular with locals and overseas visitors alike and can be arranged at short notice. Click here for more info Half day workshops
Mahoe Hills
Mahoe Hills is a lifestyle farm located in a quiet valley between Brightwater and Wakefield, south of Nelson. Mahoe Hills is set within a backdrop of steep hills and native bush. Our native bush and wetlands are QEII protected. The hills are home to our friendly alpacas. We have 28 alpacas including white, fawn, brown, grey and black. The alpacas provide us with soft, luxurious fibre for spinning and felting.
We are keen gardeners and grow fruit, vegetables and nuts in our organic gardens.
More about Mahoe Hills Alpacas
There are extensive native and edible gardens surrounding the 100-year old restored cottage. The craft studio is a more recent addition and we welcome visitors by arrangement. We offer garden and studio tours for groups interested in organic gardening and eco-crafts.
Nutrition Matters
Marion is a retired Dietitian and experienced cook and gardener. Nutrition workshops and education sessions are available on request. Nutrition Matters
Inspiring, creative felt and mosaics workshops
Felting
Felting is an ancient craft and the possibilities are endless. You can learn how to felt a scarf, hat or bag. The materials include farm-grown alpaca, local merino and recycled silk fabric.
Mosaics
With mosaics the possibilities are endless. You can use tiles, glass, old crockery, beads and ornaments. You can make something in your own style and taste whether it is classic, modern or eclectic.
Eco-dyeing
Eco-dyeing is an environmentally friendly method of printing and dyeing textiles. Mahoe Hills has a dye garden and throughout the year we offer eco-dyeing workshops. You learn how to make eco-prints and dye-baths with everyday flowers and leaves.