
Bonsai & Brews at Caledonia Brewing | Dunedin
Join Thunderstruck Bonsai for Bonsai & Brews at Caledonia Brewing! Whether you’re brand new to bonsai or just looking for a creative night out, this event is designed to be fun, approachable, and unforgettable.
We’ll kick things off with a quick intro to bonsai, then dive into styling your own tropical pre-bonsai tree. You’ll choose your tree and ceramic pot, and we’ll guide you through pruning, wiring, and potting; step by step. No experience needed, and all materials and tools are provided for the workshop.
Caledonia Brewing offers a cozy, laid-back vibe with a rotating selection of house-brewed beers, local guest taps, cider, and wine. It’s the perfect setting to relax, sip something delicious, and create something you’ll be proud to take home.
Each Ticket Includes:
– A tropical species pre-bonsai tree
– Ceramic glazed bonsai pottery
– Instructions to style and care for your new bonsai tree
– Wire, bonsai soil, and substrate
– Use of all necessary tools provided
– Aftercare instructions and guidance
Space is limited and these events tend to sell out, especially in Dunedin. Grab your tickets early and come grow with us!
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What is Bonsai & Brews?
Bonsai & Brews at Caledonia Brewing is hosted each month on the 3rd Wednesday, since August 2022! Bonsai & Brews is a beginner-friendly bonsai workshop hosted in partnership with local independent beverage spaces, including breweries, coffee shops, cafés, and similar venues. Guests learn how to repot, prune, and style their own bonsai with guidance from the Thunderstruck Bonsai team and leave with a finished tree they created themselves.
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Can I bring a friend, does every attendee need a ticket?
Of course, you can bring a friend. However, please note that each person should have a ticket to attend. If your friend does not have a ticket, due to limited seating availability we cannot guarantee that you can sit together, if at all. You can book a ticket online up until the start of the event, or with the host at the venue, subject to availability. 🍻
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Are the brews included?
No, drinks are not included in the ticket price. Bonsai & Brews is hosted in collaboration with local breweries, we bring the bonsai, the brewery offers the brews! Note: Some brewery locations do offer a welcome drink, that information will be included on the event page.
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What species are we working with, are they all the same?
We work with dwarf jade (Portulacaria afra) because it’s hardy, forgiving, and perfect for learning the fundamentals of bonsai. While we stick to that species for the class, you do get to pick your own tree from a selection of pre‑bonsai.

Artists
Justin ZabinskiAs an artist and workshop instructor, Justin has a knack for taking all the intimidation out of the art form, making complex techniques like structural wiring, pruning, and soil prep feel natural, approachable, and zero-stress.
Frequently highlighted by workshop guests for his patient, step-by-step guidance, Justin is always floating around the room to offer a hand, answer care questions, or reassure first-timers that there’s no reason to stress over a wrong cut. For Justin, bonsai is all about going with the flow, enjoying the hands-on process, and making sure everyone leaves the event with a great tree, new confidence, and good vibes.
Larry NaederLarry Nader is the owner of Thunderstruck Bonsai, a nursery dedicated to creating living bonsai art. His deep passion for bonsai artistry has earned him widespread recognition and respect in the bonsai community.
As the owner of Thunderstruck Bonsai, Larry has built a business dedicated to nurturing and cultivating premium bonsai specimens. He is deeply committed to fostering a strong sense of community through education and consultation on bonsai care. Larry actively engages with the community through workshops and educational events, teaching enthusiasts and newcomers about the artistry and techniques of bonsai.
In addition, Larry serves as the Vice President of the Suncoast Bonsai Society and is Chairman of the BSF Epcot Committee. He is also a dedicated student of renowned bonsai artist Nacho Marin, further enhancing his expertise and artistry.










