HomeCourses

Ecoshow Workshops



Building and Construction courses

Ecoshow specialises in teaching hands-on workshops focused on Ecological Design, Natural Building, and Appropriate Technologies. We can even design courses for your group or organisation. We may have projects that are not listed on the schedule so if interested contact us.

Earthbag_littleWhat is earthbag building?

Earthbag building also known as "super adobe" combines a quick construction time and extreme structural integrity. The result is beautiful natural shaped structures. We find that the cost of building with this method is about 1/10 the price of conventional building.  The embodied energy of these structures is also drastically less than conventional buildings.

Earthbag Building Workshop

Build your own home!

Others may spend a small fortune to build a home. Learn to build yours for a fraction of the cost.  Unlike conventional building, earthbag construction is quicker to complete and easier to master. No previous building experience necessary.

Gain the tools needed to get started building with earthbag.  Get the experience and confidence to start your own project. We’ll cover all the phases of construction from design to foundation, earthbag walls, plaster and roofs. Learn the theory and design principles of this type of building along with gaining hands-on experience working on the structures currently under way at Awhi Farm -centre for sustainable practise.
Learn how to build your own earthbag shelter designed for New Zealand conditions. Design for high rain fall and seismic conditions.
Worried about earthquakes?
Nadir Khalili’s tests in Hesperia, California demonstrate how earthbag structures exceed the strength of the testing equipment with no deflection or failure, and received code approval in the most dangerous level — seismic zone 4. Gaining building code approval in California, the strictest area in the world as far as building codes go, speaks volumes to the inherent strength of earthbags.  
Where:  Awhi Farm - Turangi (near Taupo)
When:  22-25  March  and  26-29 April
Cost:  $475  includes lunches (save 4.4% by paying with direct credit)
Accommodation:   stay at  Turangi accommodation (back packers or motel you choose)

Join us for this four day intensive workshop.   Limited spaces available.

Book Here

 

 

 

 

Earth/Lime Plastering Workshop -

A Fun hands on course. Learn about plastering and get your hands dirty! We'll be applying plaster to the earthbag structure being built at Awhi in the next few months.

We also have plastering to do on the Cordwood building.

Tools for Teachers

A swiss army knife set of tools to build confidence and competence for anyone wishing to run courses or make presentations.  In the context of sustainability.
Please request- number of days is negotiable, depending on what must be covered. (Usually 5-6 days)
Tutors: Bryan Innes and Joanna Pearsall