A new magical experience arrives at Hamilton Gardens

To celebrate International Children’s Day, Hamilton Gardens will unveil its newest creative installation, the Kitchen Garden Shed, on 28 February from 10am to 11am during the Hamilton Arts Festival.

Created by artist and ceramist Wilhelmiina Drummond, the Garden Shed invites visitors into the imaginative world of the Gardens Keeper and the wee folk who call the shed home. The event will open with a ribbon cutting and welcome, celebrating the addition of this whimsical new space to the Gardens.

Storytelling with the artist

As part of the unveiling, Wilhelmiina Drummond will read The Garden Shed: Magical Meetings, the original story that inspired the artwork. The story introduces visitors to the Gardens Keeper, his portal to the Beyond Lands, and the charming fairy folk who have built their homes inside his shed.

Children and adults alike will meet Augus and Linnea, two of the tiny residents whose cottages, treehouse, beehives, and pumpkin patch bring the shed to life. The tale encourages visitors to look closely at the details, from fairy laundry drying in the breeze to the glowing suitcase that may, if one gazes too long, draw the curious traveller toward a very exciting path indeed.

Family activities and festival fun

Hamilton City Libraries will host activities for tamariki aged six and under throughout the event. These activities have been designed to help young visitors explore the themes of imagination, nature, and storytelling that sit at the heart of the Garden Shed.

Following the unveiling, families are invited to stay on site for Dr Hubble’s Brilliant Bubbles show as part of the Hamilton Arts Festival, continuing the morning of whimsy and wonder. Tickets for the bubble show can be purchased on Eventfinda.

Event details

Date: Saturday 28 February 2026

Time: 10am–11am (Dr Hubble’s Brilliant Bubbles ticketed show begins at 11am)

Location: Hamilton Gardens

Cost: The event is free but entrance to the Enclosed Gardens is required with a ticket or MyGardens Pass for adults and children over 15.

About the artist

Wilhelmiina Drummond is a Hamilton-based artist and ceramist known for her detailed sculptural work and storytelling through clay. The Garden Shed brings together her interest in miniature worlds, folklore, and the everyday magic found in gardens.

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