Ah, Auckland summers – a time for sunscreen, barbecues, and apparently, pottery classes, according to our hobbyist friend who, quote, had been “dying to try it.” So, when we finally had months off from work, we decided to give it a shot!

And while our talent is more like praying for the best, it was genuinely a fun learning experience. 

Because after a summer of getting our hands dirty, we’ve found Auckland’s top pottery classes that are worth the clay stains.

Don’t worry – we’ve picked all the places that are beginner-friendly and won’t be a hassle for your schedule, even during work months. Check them out here!

How much does a pottery class cost in Auckland?

The cost for pottery classes in Auckland typically ranges between $50 and $150 per session, depending on the duration, materials provided, and the instructor’s expertise. Some studios offer discounted rates for multi-session packages or beginner workshops, making them accessible to various budgets.

How we chose

Experienced Instructors: We chose pottery classes with skilled and passionate instructors. We made sure to include only instructors with a positive attitude and at least six months of experience.

Flexible Scheduling: We looked for classes that offer flexible scheduling options to fit busy lifestyles. This can include classes available on the weekends or evenings for adults and summer classes for kids.

Quality Materials and Equipment: We selected classes that provide high-quality materials and equipment for their students. Each pottery class should provide all materials, such as clay, pottery wheels, and kilns.

Reasonable Pricing: We picked pottery classes that offer great value for your money. It should be within the average rates for pottery classes in the city. These classes should provide exceptional instruction and resources without charging excessive rates. 

Variety of Classes Offered: We looked for studios that offer a wide range of classes, from beginner to advanced levels. We also looked into whether they have one-time sessions for those who simply want to try it out.

1.  Rui Ceramics

One of the reasons why we loved Rui Ceramics is their flexible scheduling options. They offer a variety of class times, including evenings and weekends, making it easy for anyone to fit pottery into their hectic schedules.

Another strong point is the quality of the materials used in their classes. For instance, there is top-notch clay and glazes, which significantly enhance the crafting experience. Additionally, this makes it easy for students who don’t have materials on their own.

Another aspect that sets Rui Ceramics apart is the attitude of the instructors. One student shared how the instructor’s encouragement and detailed feedback significantly boosted their confidence and helped refine their techniques.

Just note that students are required to book and complete payment at least three days prior to the scheduled class date. Slots are also limited, so booking as early as possible is recommended. 

Highly recommend 

“I recently enjoyed a two-hour, Have A Go class with Emma and would highly recommend it. I have done general beginners ceramics programmes in the past, forgetting most of it. This solo session with Emma renewed my enthusiasm and taught me so much more than what I managed to learn in multiple classes before. I am interested in wheel throwing and

Emma was patient and clear. I see another session with her in my future!”

Suzanne Dale | Website

Fun learning experience 

“If you are looking for fun things to do in Auckland, highly recommend you check out Rui Ceramics! I booked a 2-hr pottery workshop with Emma for my husband and our neighbour couple and we had so much fun. Emma is so patient and talented. Instead of

jumping straight into things, she provides guidance based on our level of experience. Emma is also super friendly and hilarious, we got comfortable right away. Thanks Emma for the unforgettable the experience, we left feeling happy and fulfilled”

Beverly Jong | Website

2. Clay Studios

Clay Studios offers a comprehensive range of pottery classes catering to individuals of all skill levels. The studio provides various throwing, hand-building, and ceramics classes that are well-suited for both beginners and advanced students. 

Additionally, the studio hosts youth workshops, kids’ classes during school holidays, and weekend parties, making it an inclusive environment for all age groups.

Schedule flexibility is also one of their biggest advantages. They have classes available during weekends, allowing students to book a class without worrying about missing appointments.

As typical with most pottery classes, slots are definitely limited. However, once you are in class, you can have the opportunity to receive specialist training in any area of interest, making the experience personalised and tailored to your needs.

Talented tutors

“Clay Studios is a fantastic place to have a break from everyday life and learn a new craft. It is well run with great courses and fun and talented tutors. I’ve tried the one off sessions and the throwing courses, both of which have been very enjoyable. Plus they have all the supplies a beginner needs. Recommended!”

Liz Gellert | Facebook

Best class ever

“Thank you Michelle for the best class this weekend clay tea light houses omg I’m coming back for more.”

Irene Asher-Wilson | Facebook

3. Falcon Grey Ceramics

For beginners who find using the wheel challenging, Falcon Grey Ceramic might be the best place for you. This is because pottery classes here focus mainly on hand-building pottery, which allows students to have more control over the clay. 

What’s great about their pottery class is their ability to carve fine details on the clay while also adding their students’ personal style. They teach techniques such as coiling, pinching, or slab building – basic skills that are essential to beginners. 

Students who want to learn how to make a specific object can also join their workshop, which ranges from a simple mug building to something as intricate as statues. The workshops are divided based on technique, allowing students to build skills in the area they find hard.

What might become a problem is their lack of a comprehensive pottery course, which only focuses on hand-building for beginners and novice potters. Once you’re done mastering hand-building, you’ll have to find a different pottery studio for more advanced courses.

Welcoming for beginners

“Such a great experience and very welcoming for people that have never done pottery before. Highly recommended”

Logan Kerr | Google Reviews

Great experience and vibe

“My partner and I had the best time making a mug in Siriporn’s class. We loved how they came out, and the overall experience/vibe was so great. Thank you so much!”

Ella Bowater | Google Reviews

4. The Clay Centre

Clay Center offers one-off classes, which we consider the best option for absolute beginners and hobbyists. Their one-off classes are offered on Fridays and Saturdays, focusing more on the pottery wheel with plenty of opportunities to experiment.

If you liked what you experienced in their one-off class, they also offer more comprehensive pottery classes. These classes range from practical courses such as hand-building and wheel-throwing to theoretical courses such as fundamentals of glazing chemistry.

For advanced students, becoming a member is the best choice. Membership gives you access to the wheels, hand-building areas, and glazing facilities during open hours. This makes it easier to start and finish a pottery work without looking for other places to do it.

Helpful and accommodating

“I organised a private group class as a Hen’s do activity. Nadine was super helpful and accommodating as we organised everything over email. She’s also an excellent tutor. The ladies all thoroughly enjoyed the class and very excited to receive their handmade creation in a few weeks. Some are also considering taking further classes. I highly recommend Nadine and the Clay centre if you’re looking for something different to do as a group activity.”

Charlotte Hoonhout | Facebook

Engaging sessions

“I had my daughters 10th birthday celebration here and I was blown away by the efficient, engaging session Nadine and her team organised ❤. The girls were fully engaged with the ‘throwing’ and they were absolutely stoked to received their finished, beautifully glazed creations ! Super organised and creative.  Thank you Nadine and Team @ The Clay Centre.”

Charmaine Vessoaker D’lima | Facebook

5. Eden Ceramics

Eden Ceramics divides its courses into beginner and intermediate classes, which is perfect if you’re unsure which course suits your level of experience. Beginners can learn both hand-building and wheel throwing, as well as the basics of using clay.

Intermediate classes are taught by Jino Jeong, who trained in ceramics at Kyunggi University in South Korea. The course will provide hands-on instruction, which is the kind of individualised learning that’s most beneficial for potters.

And if you’re simply trying out pottery and don’t wish to fully commit to a $300 course, they also offer beginner workshops. Each workshop caters to what students wish to learn; however, they are only available seasonally.

Slots for their courses are limited, though, so book fast, or you’ll miss the chance to pick the best times they offer. On the plus side, the place is available for private classes with up to 10 guests, which is perfect if you prefer a more private setting without the hassle of finding available class times. 

Allows you to be creative

“I just completed my first pottery class with a group of friends at Eden Ceramics. The class lasted about 2 hours, and we tried both hand-building and wheel techniques. Today, I received my pieces of art and I’m excited to show them off! I absolutely love them. It’s amazing to use your imagination to create your own unique pieces. Richard, our tutor, was excellent and very patient. Looking forward to the second class!”

Larry Yang | Google Reviews

Good experience 

“Me and my friend had a good experience here! Highly recommend for everyone. This was my first time doing and I absolutely love it. The place is amazing and the teacher guidance is very attentive.Will definitely back for more sessions”

SiJie Xiong | Google Reviews