Whanganui, 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 the book
arts, you’re warmly invited to join us in Whanganui from 18–20 September 2026.
A WEEKEND OF CRAFT, COMMUNITY, AND DISCOVERY
Our 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 5.45pm on Friday, everyone is welcome at the Rutland Arms for an informal
meetup — first come, first served, stay for dinner if you wish.
Saturday and Sunday start gently with coffee or brunch at local cafés, perfect for
reconnecting with old friends and meeting new ones.
Saturday concludes with the Wayzgoose Dinner at the Brick House Restaurant,
complete with guest speaker and auction. Bookings will open closer to the event.
STUDIO VISITS
Across the weekend, several practitioners are opening their studios to visitors:
Christina Drummond — Friday, 11.00–12.30
Jo Giddens — Saturday, 10.30
Catherine Macdonald — Saturday, 11.30
If you would like to host a studio visit, please let us know.
EXHIBITION — open to all
A highlight of the Wayzgoose is our joint exhibition of work from both organisations.
ABC will show books from their annual Print and Bind project, alongside entries
for the John Samsom Memorial Bookbinding Competition.
See the detailed programme attached HERE. The Brick House menu is HERE.
If you are travelling to Whanganui and have a seat to spare, or you are looking for a ride, please email the secretary at handcraftprinters@gmail.com and we will arrange for you to meet a fellow traveller.
If you are looking for accommodation in Whanganui there are plenty of options. We have attached HERE a copy of the leaflet provided by the people at Whanganui i-Site which may be useful.