Waiata in The Woolshed

Waiata in the Woolshed

Bringing People Together

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In Conversation with Emma Maurice and Guests

Where Korero Meets Waiata in the Heart of Peel Forest

Waiata in the Woolshed is our celebration of storytelling, song, and the threads that weave our communities together. Here, acclaimed writers, musicians, and cultural voices share their mahi alongside emerging talents, creating conversations that honour both our literary heritage and our living traditions. Proudly brought to you by The Page and Prose Booksellers.

the woolshed

We gather here where generations of work and care have left their mark. Our Peel Forest working woolshed provides the perfect backdrop for intimate conversations - rustic yet welcoming, echoing with the warmth of shared stories and the gentle acoustics that make every waiata feel like a gift.

what to expect

At every gathering, you're invited to be part of the kōrero. We encourage you to share your own stories, songs, and memories - those precious threads that connect us to place, whānau, and each other. The afternoon unfolds with kai shared in true community spirit, along with opportunities to meet our guests, purchase books, and gather signatures on treasured volumes.

our community

From the rolling hills of South Canterbury to the wider literary and cultural communities of Aotearoa, Waiata in the Woolshed draws together people who understand that stories are how we make sense of our world. Whether you're a devoted reader, a lover of waiata, or simply someone who cherishes good conversation, you'll find yourself at home here.

What Our Friends says

Karen Tilley

I attended this lovely event last September and recommend it. The February event sounds amazing!

Matt searles

What a fantastic event! Such a privilege to listen to interesting speakers, talented poets and singers and hear people share their stories and connection to whenua

Jan Hill

The beauty of weaving human connection.

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Past Events

In Conversation with Glenn Colquhoun

Introduced Glenn Colquhoun, author and GP from the Horowhenua. He mesmerised us with stories of our shared heritage told through song.  Our audience were invited to share stories/songs they remember growing up with, and join in conversation/song with Glenn and our MC: Anah Aikman.  We were proud to also showcase visual art by local artist, Stephanie Postles.  Stephanie is a New Zealand-born painter living and working up the Orari Gorge, South Canterbury.  She is known for her charming and vibrant depictions of interiors and people and holds exhibitions throughout New Zealand.

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In Conversation With Emma Maurice & Guests

Dr Emma Maurice, drew from her research on a century of Ngāi Tahu, the power of historical narratives and their potential to influence our day-to-day lives. Emma was joined by author Jeffrey Paparoa Holman, countertenor Austin Haynes, 2025 Emerging Māori Writer in Residence at Te Herenga Waka, Victoria University Pounamu Jade Aikman, and our waiata ensemble, Wāhine on Toa from Timaru. With MC Anah Aikman.

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Join Our Journey

Each event is a unique gathering, but together they form something larger - a celebration of the voices that shape our understanding of home, identity, and belonging. We invite you to become part of this special community, where every story matters and every voice has value. Subscribe now to get 10% OFF your first order with The Page and Prose Booksellers.

Contact Us

Phone

03-693 8647

Email

belinda@thepageandprose.co.nz

Address

26 Talbot Street Geraldine

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