Learning at Christchurch City Libraries
Explore creative technology
Auahatanga Creative Space Showcase
Recommended for Year 1+
Location: Auahatanga Tūranga and Auahatanga Creative Space in Te Hāpua: Halswell Centre
Duration: 45 minutes
Group size: Maximum 15 ākonga
Learn about what’s in our Auahatanga Creative Spaces and how to access them to bring your creative ideas to life. Includes a tour of the space and technology, a showcase of available opportunities and hands on tasters.
Media Studio Showcase
Recommended for Years 9+
Location: Auahatanga Tūranga
Duration: 15 minutes
Group size: Maximum 10 ākonga
Learn about what’s in our Media Studio and how you can use it to unleash your creativity.
Integrate Creative Technology into your curriculum
GCSN and Christchurch City Libraries deliver creative technology sessions in our Auahatanga – Creative Spaces across Christchurch. From podcasting to creative design, that inspire curiosity and build practical skills aligned with the New Zealand Curriculum.
To apply for funding, please fill out the registration form specific to session(s) and GCSN staff will consider the application.
Podcasting Essentials
Ākonga will take a practical, hands-on approach to podcast creation, learning essential skills such as writing scripts for a targeted audience and using podcasting equipment and audio software. Script writing is done in small groups, as is the learning of recording and production techniques. During production, ākonga will edit mistakes, import music, and layer multiple tracks to create a polished final podcast.
This programme also provides a pathway for entry into Top of the Pods, a competition where teams of ākonga from across greater Christchurch submit their own podcasts to be in to win awesome prizes.
Years: 5-8
Time: 9.30am to 2.30pm
Miniature Maker
Embark on a hero’s journey with our Miniature Maker workshop! Ākonga will develop a character through creative writing, design a 3D model, create a background using AI image generator and laser cut a terrain tile inspired by their story. The session includes an hour miniature painting session back at school.
Please note:
- *The follow up session may not be available to schools beyond Christchurch City limits.
- 3D printing will not take place during the session due to time constraints.
Years: 4+
Time: Session One: 9.30am to 2.30pm
Time: Session Two: 1 hour (at your school*)
Group Size = Minimum 5 and maximum 12 ākonga
Creative Design Workshop
Ākonga will learn to create vector art using the software Affinity Designer. Select one specific product for ākonga to design for, such as a t-shirt, poster, laptop cover, stickers, or tote bag. Ākonga will then apply their designs to the chosen product, gaining hands-on experience with both digital design and print production techniques.
Please note: Ākonga need to bring one t-shirt or tote bag for printing. Please contact us if this is a barrier; GCSN funding support may be available.
Years: 7+
Time: 9.30am to 2.30pm
Group Size = Maximum 12 ākonga
Coding Creations (VEX Robotics)
Coding Creations is a dynamic, hands-on program using VEX Robotics and block-based coding (text based optional). Ākonga will learn key computational thinking skills by programming robots and understanding core concepts such as inputs, outputs, and automation. The program also encourages critical discussion around the role of robotics in the future workforce — both its potential to support industry and the ethical implications of automation. Ākonga will also explore how to use large language model (LLM) AI tools to assist with debugging, idea generation, and reflection. Perfect for small groups of learners ready to integrate robotics, coding, and emerging technology in a practical, future-focused way.
Years: 7-8
Time: 10am to 2pm
Group Size = Maximum 10 ākonga
Crafting Empathy: Minecraft
Through their efforts to collaboratively build a village in Minecraft Education Edition, ākonga will personally experience frustration, resilience, and privilege in a safe environment. Library staff will then facilitate a conversation where students can share their experiences and explore what it means to be up standers at school and in their own lives.
Ākonga will develop their ability to express their own values, explore the values of others with empathy, and make ethical decisions and act on them.
Years: 6-12
Time: 10am to 1pm
Group Size = Maximum 12 ākonga
FAQ
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Auahatanga Creative Space showcase and Media Studio showcase are free of charge.
Some creative technology sessions (e.g., Crafting Empathy, Podcasting Essentials, Creative Design Workshop, Miniature Maker and Coding Creation) may have funding support available for schools through GCSN - Greater Christchurch Schools' Network. Apply directly with GCSN to request funding and enquire about eligibility criteria.
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Crafting Empathy, Podcasting Essentials, Creative Design Workshop, Miniature Maker, and Coding Creation require basic computer skills, such as keyboard typing and using a mouse.

