
Workshops
I've been folding Origami since I was 7, which means I now have over 30 years of experience—finally putting ‘paper cuts’ under the 'Skills' section of my CV. Origami has been part of my life for longer than I've been able to drive a car. And, as soon as I could drive a car, I started attending monthly Origami groups. When I was 19, I attended my first Origami convention; Pacific Coast Origami Convention 2009 in San Francisco.
My workshops consist of a combination of Origami and Circus Arts which develop key skills through creative play. Origami, the Japanese art of paper folding, is more than just a relaxing hobby—it’s an excellent way to develop fine motor skills. As individuals fold paper into precise shapes and intricate designs, they strengthen the small muscles in their fingers and hands. This improves hand-eye coordination, dexterity, and attention to detail, making origami a fun and effective tool for motor skill development, especially in children or those in rehabilitation.
In contrast, circus arts—such as juggling, and balancing, object manipulating—primarily target coordination. These activities require the body and brain to work together seamlessly, enhancing overall body awareness, timing, and control. Practicing circus skills helps build motor coordination, boosts focus, and encourages laughter through physical play.
Together, origami and circus arts offer a playful yet powerful way to improve both fine and gross motor skills, promoting both mental and physical development through creativity and movement.
I currently teach locally in Christchurch, New Zealand at local community events. Occasionally, I travel to the following regions to teach:
Quarterly:
Wellington & Auckland
Bi-annually:
Invercargill & Dunedin
Annually:
Nelson/Blenheim, Hawke's Bay, and Palmerston North/Whanganui





