Experience the art of blacksmithing in the Waikato
Whether you’re a complete beginner or an aspiring pro, our forge is the perfect place to shape hot steel into a one-of-a-kind creation you can take home.
Located in the beautiful Waikato countryside, this is an all-weather activity—rain or shine, it’s always a great time to get forging. Plus, all classes are fully catered, so you can enjoy delicious refreshments while you work.
Our team of skilled blacksmiths, led by Rob—one of New Zealand’s few time-served blacksmiths with over 30 years of experience—are passionate about sharing their craft. With their combined expertise, infectious enthusiasm, and friendly Kiwi humor, they create a welcoming environment where every class is memorable
When you book, available dates will be displayed on our booking calendar. Please contact us if you can’t see your preferred date.
Do I need any previous experience?
You don’t need any previous experience or skills. The workshops are tailored to your ability and our team is there to help you!
What should I bring to the class?
Food and drinks are provided. Please wear long pants (preferably non-flammable material) and closed shoes. We provide leather aprons but be prepared that you may still get a bit dirty. We also provide earplugs and safety glasses.
Can kids and teenagers attend the classes?
Yes, we welcome all ages! We do require an adult to book in with any person under 16, either as a participant of the class or as a spectator.
How should I take care of my creation?
Taking care of a knife: do not forget to give it a good rinse before you start using it. You should always immediately dry it after washing and never put it in the dishwasher. They are the biggest enemies of your newly made knife 🙂
Carbon steel is particularly reactive to high acid products. Therefore, it is imperative that you rinse your blade and wipe it dry after cutting anything acidic, such as citrus, tomatoes, and onions. If not rinsed, the acid will begin to corrode the steel and damage your blade.
After washing and drying your knife, we recommend oiling it with a food safe, neutral oil to protect your blade and encourage a slow and even patina. The oil will act as a barrier to help protect against future exposure to moisture and acids.
Taking care of an axe: Protect your axe from rust damage by lightly oiling it after each use. Take a clean, dry rag or paper towel and wipe down the axe head and handle. Now apply linseed oil to the rag and rub down the entire axe. If you do not have linseed oil, just about any non-petroleum oil will work. An axe should never be put away wet.
Do you offer gift vouchers?
We offer vouchers with a gift now – book & pay later system.
Click here to download the gift now – book & pay later voucher.
How does the gift now – book & pay later system work?
To gift this voucher, simply download and print or send it digitally. When the recipient is ready to book, they’ll let you know.
Can I pay for the voucher in advance?
While we used to offer pre-paid vouchers, we’ve found it’s often more convenient to wait until a date is confirmed. This way, you don’t have to worry about paying for a voucher that might go unused!
However, if you’d like to book and pay for a specific date, you’re welcome to do so! If the date doesn’t work out, just let us know with plenty of notice, and we can reschedule.
Ready to gift a pre-booked session?
Click here to download the voucher for a pre-booked date.
If you have any questions, please let us know. We are happy to help organise your special gift!
What is your cancellation policy?
Refund or change of date is possible when booking is more than 3 weeks away. PayPal transaction fees may apply on payments made by PayPal.
If the booking is within 3 weeks, change of date only is available. Change of date is subject to availability and valid for 100 days after the initial booking date.