Everything you need to know

FAQs

1. What is the difference between a six-week course, a learning lunch, and a learning adventure?

Each format offers a different kind of experience, and many of our members enjoy all three.

A six-week course provides an in-depth exploration of a single theme. Weekly sessions are held between 10 am and midday over a coffee (or tea) in a relaxed learning environment. Over six weeks, you will build real knowledge, connect with a group of people, and leave with a genuinely deeper understanding of something that has always interested you. What makes each course extra special is that the venues we use are purposely selected for the connection to the subject area, e.g., Creative Arts in a theatre space. This means that no two courses are the same, as the venues, speakers and topics are specifically curated for each course to deliver a unique and impactful experience to everyone who participates.

A learning lunch is a two-and-a-half-hour learning experience held on scheduled weekdays generally between 11 am and 1:30 pm. Each learning lunch features an expert speaker who delivers an in-depth talk on a specific topic or theme, held at a wonderful lunch venue. Each learning lunch includes a shared meal and a chance to connect with like-minded people.

A learning adventure is a full-day outing generally between 10am to 3pm, during which participants meet at a designated location to board a bus for a day trip. Each learning adventure is built around bringing ideas, subjects and places to life — a gallery, a nature reserve, a historic site, a working studio. Learning experiences include expert commentary, unhurried exploration, and the pleasure of discovering something new or surprising.

2. Is Love Heart only for people over 60?

Our programmes are designed with people aged 60-plus in mind. Our programmes and experiences are designed for people at a stage in life when they have more time to learn, connect and explore new things. However, we don’t ask for proof of age or prevent people from joining the Love Heart community, based on the shared understanding that most people will be over 60 years of age.

3. Are there tests, grades, or homework?

None whatsoever. Love Heart is designed on the concept of social learning. There are no tests, no right answers, and no judgment. The only thing we ask is that you bring your curiosity and your willingness to engage.

4. Do I need prior knowledge of the subjects/topics?

Not at all. Our experts are skilled at making ideas and topics accessible for all. The conversations that emerge from a room of people with different backgrounds are often the richest of all. Curiosity is the only prerequisite.

5. What if I am not particularly confident with technology?

You do not need to be confident with technology, as our experiences are all delivered in-person and you do not need to bring a laptop or tablet with you.

6. How do I book a course or event?

We recommend you start by browsing our different learning options on our website. Once you find the location, topic and learning type that best suit you, simply add the experience to your shopping cart in the same way you buy other event tickets, such as theatre tickets.

The website will step you through the checkout and payment steps. After booking your learning experience, you will receive a confirmation email with everything you need to know.

However, at any time, if you would prefer to book over the phone, we are happy to help — just give us a call.

1. Browse the Courses or Upcoming Events sections on the website

2. Select the experience you would like to attend

3. Click Book Now and complete the checkout and payment

4. A confirmation email will arrive with all the details

7. What payment methods do you accept?

We accept Visa, Mastercard, Google Pay, and Apple Pay. All transactions are processed securely. If you have a large group booking and need to pay by bank transfer or invoice, please call or email us, and we will assist.

8. Is my payment information safe?

Yes. We use SSL/TLS encryption to protect your payment details, we do not store your credit card information on our servers, and we comply with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS). Your financial information is handled with a commitment to security at all times.

9. Can I book more than one course at a time?

Absolutely. Add as many experiences as you like to your cart before checking out, and you will receive a separate confirmation for each booking. There is a $5 booking fee with each booking.

10. What does "Filling Fast" mean on a course?

It means spaces are limited and going quickly. If a course or event catches your eye, it is worth booking sooner rather than later. Once a session is fully booked, it will not be visible on the website.

11. Can I transfer my booking to a different course or date?

Yes. 100%. If you need to switch to a different session or date, please contact us at least 7 days before your original booking, and we will do our best to transfer you to another experience or refund you in full.

12. Can I book on behalf of someone else?

Yes. You can complete a booking on behalf of a friend or family member. Please make sure the participant's name and contact details are entered correctly at checkout, as confirmation and reminder emails will be sent directly to them.

13. What if I have not received my confirmation email?

Check your spam or junk folder first — confirmation emails occasionally end up there. If you still can’t find it, please contact us at hello@heart.co.nz or call us, and we will resend it promptly.

14. When will Love Heart come to my region?

We plan to expand across New Zealand and hope to open in Tauranga and Hamilton by the end of 2026. Please sign up for our updates and we will let you know when we are opening in your region.

15. Pricing and Refunds

How much do Love Heart experiences cost?

Six-Week Course =$400

Single session within a course (where available) =$85

Learning Lunch =$95

Learning Adventure = $200–$250 (varies by location and venue)

All prices include GST. No hidden fees.

16. Are there discounts available?

Groups of six or more booking the same Learning Adventure receive a 10% discount. Contact us at booking@heart.co.nz to arrange a group booking and apply the discount.

We do not currently offer concession pricing, but if cost is a barrier for you, please reach out to see how we can help, as limited partial scholarships are available.

17. What is your cancellation and refund policy?

We understand that your plans to attend may change unexpectedly. Here is how our policy works:

More than 14 days before the event - Full refund

7–14 days before the event - 50% refund

Less than 7 days before the event - No refund

Refunds are returned to your original payment method within 5 business days. If you miss a session within a six-week course, that individual session cannot be refunded separately.

18. What happens if Love Heart cancels a course?

If we need to cancel a course — due to low enrolments, a venue issue, or circumstances beyond our control — you will receive a full refund or the option to transfer your booking to another course or experience. We will always give you as much notice as possible and make sure you are not out of pocket. That is our promise.

19. What if I do not show up to an event I have booked and paid for?

If you do not attend and have not notified us in advance, your booking will be forfeited, and no refund will be issued. However, we know life can be unpredictable. If something comes up unexpectedly, please contact us as early as you can, and we will do everything we can to help.

20. Can I get a receipt or invoice for my booking?

Yes. Your confirmation email also serves as a receipt. If you need a formal invoice — for example, for tax purposes — please email hello@heart.co.nz, and we will arrange one for you.

21. Do I need a printed ticket to access Learning Experiences and courses?

No. We will scan your ticket on your mobile device on arrival at our events. However, if you wish to print your confirmation, we can also scan you in from a printed ticket.

22. Where are Love Heart experiences delivered?

We run courses and events across many different locations, with new locations and regions being added as we grow. Our venues are chosen to align with the subject matter, for example, a course on the creative arts might be held in a gallery or a theatre. We are always looking for spaces that make the learning feel relevant and alive.

23. How do I find the venue?

Your confirmation email will include the full address, directions, and parking information. A map link is also embedded in your confirmation email. A reminder email with all of this information will also be sent 72 hours before your session.

24. Is parking available at the venues?

Most of our venues have good parking. Wherever possible, we try to find venues with free parking. But this is not guaranteed. Our reminder email to you will include specific parking details for that location.

25. What if I have accessibility or mobility needs?

We are committed to making Love Heart welcoming and accessible to everyone, and we prioritise venues with good access. Our tickets include accessibility information, especially if there are stairs, without a lift option. If you have wheelchair requirements, mobility needs, hearing or vision considerations, or any other accessibility needs, please let us know at least 7 days before your learning experience so we can ensure everything is in place for you. We will always do our best to accommodate you.

26. What if I have dietary requirements for a learning lunch or adventure?

Once your booking is confirmed, we will send you an email to capture any specific needs, including any dietary needs. We will ensure your dietary requirements are met if your requirements are provided in advance. If you forget to provide these requirements before the day, we will try our very best to accommodate your needs.

27. Are meals provided at Love Heart Learning Experiences?

Tea and coffee are provided at our courses. Depending on the venue, this may be barista-made or Americano-style/plunger coffee. Lunches are provided at the Learning lunches. These meals are generally shared, although on occasion they will be individual portions from a set meal. Special dietary requirements will be served as individual meals in most instances. Soft drinks and/or tea and coffee are available at lunch. Where available, alcoholic beverages can be purchased by attendees.

All-day Learning Adventures include morning tea and lunch.

28. Are Love Heart courses available online?

No, unfortunately, we are an in-person learning organisation. Our learning experiences are designed to be in-person. The connections that form in the room, the conversations that happen over a shared meal, the collective experience of discovering something new together, these are things that cannot be replicated in the virtual world. Love Heart is built on the belief that physical connection is one of life's great pleasures.

29. How many people will be in my course or event?

Six-week courses typically have between 20 and 40 participants — large enough for a wide variety of perspectives, small enough that everyone has a voice. Learning lunches and adventures generally attract 30 to 45 people, depending on the topic and venue.

30. What if I don’t know anyone who is going?

If you are joining a Love Heart learning experience on your own for the first time, you will never feel alone. Every session begins with introductions, and those drawn to Love Heart tend to be warm, interesting, and genuinely good to talk to.

31. What if I feel a little nervous about joining?

That is entirely understandable. The good news is that everyone in the room has chosen to be there, which creates a particular kind of connection from the get-go. Our event facilitators are experienced at making people feel welcome, and most participants tell us that any nerves disappeared within the first few minutes. The harder question, people often say, is why they waited so long to join.

32. What should I bring?

Bring a notebook and pen if you like to write things down, or a tablet if that suits you better. Wear comfortable shoes for learning adventures. And come with an open mind. We will provide any other materials or resources you may need. Your confirmation email will include anything specific to your particular experience.

33. Can I bring a friend or family member?

Please do. Learning alongside someone you know adds a whole other dimension to the experience, and many of our participants come as pairs or small groups. If your companion is 60 or over, they are welcome to join in the usual way via the Love Heart website (heart.co.nz). If they are younger, get in touch, and we will work something out.

34. What if I have to miss a session in a six-week course?

Don’t worry, attendance is not compulsory, as we appreciate that other things may take priority at times. We have designed our learning experiences with flexibility in mind. Each session is standalone, so missing one does not mean you lose the thread.

35. What if I find the content is not what I expected?

If a course or experience is not what you were hoping for, please let us know. We genuinely want to know, and your feedback directly shapes how we develop future programmes and how we select our speakers. If you have a concern during a course, speak to your facilitator or contact us directly at hello@heart.co.nz.

36. Is there a code of conduct for participants?

Love Heart is built on mutual respect. We ask all participants to treat fellow members, speakers, and staff with courtesy and consideration. Behaviour that is disruptive, disrespectful, or discriminatory will not be tolerated. If you have any concerns about the behaviour of any participant, speaker or staff member, please contact us. We reserve the right to remove any member of the Love Heart community who does not abide by our code of conduct. Please refer to the Code of Conduct.

37. Do I need to create an account to book?

Yes, but it only takes a moment, and we capture only the bare minimum of information. Your profile account is how we send you confirmations, course updates, and reminders, and it gives you a simple way to keep track of everything you have booked.

38. I have forgotten my password. What do I do?

Simply click the Forgot Password on the login page and follow the prompts. A reset link will arrive in your inbox. If it does not appear within a few minutes, check your spam folder — or just give us a call and we will sort it out.

39. Can I update my contact details?

Yes. You can update your email address, mobile number, and postcode from within your profile at any time. Once you log in, go to your personal details and edit your profile. If you need assistance, please reach out.

40. Do you use cookies on your website?

Yes. We use cookies to help the website function properly and to understand how people are using it. Essential cookies are required for the booking process; others are optional. You can manage your cookie preferences through your browser settings or via the cookie notice when you first visit the site.

41. Does the Love Heart website also work on a phone or tablet?

Yes, the website is fully optimised for mobile and tablet. You can browse courses and complete a booking from any device.

42. I am having technical trouble with the website. What should I do?

Try refreshing the page or clearing your browser cache first. If the problem continues, contact us at hello@heart.co.nz or call us, and we will help you get sorted.

43. How can I stay in touch with other participants after a course?

We do not share participants' contact details with other participants. What we do encourage is exchanging details with the people you connect with during a course or event. Many lasting friendships have started exactly that way.

44. Can I get involved with Love Heart beyond attending courses?

We would love that. If you are interested in volunteering, helping with events, or contributing in other ways, get in touch at hello@heart.co.nz. We are always happy to hear from people who want to be part of what we are building.

45. Can I suggest a topic or speaker for a future course?

Yes, and we actively encourage it. If there is a subject you have always wanted to explore, or an expert you think would be extraordinary to hear from, tell us. Email hello@heart.co.nz with your idea.

46. Can I arrange a group experience for an organisation, retirement village or community?

Yes. We can arrange group bookings and, in some cases, tailor experiences for specific groups or organisations. Contact us at bookings@heart.co.nz to talk through what you have in mind.

47. I am interested in becoming a speaker or facilitator for Love Heart. Who do I contact?

We are always looking for experts who can bring a subject to life for a curious, engaged audience. If you have expertise in a field and a genuine passion for sharing it, we would love to hear from you. Email hello@heart.co.nz with a brief introduction and we will take it from there.

Any other Questions?

We are here and happy to help. Reach out through any of the following:

Email: hello@heart.co.nz

Phone: +64 9 650 6500

We aim to respond to all enquiries within one business day.

Please read these terms carefully before enroling in any Love Heart course.

1. Enrolment and Registration

By enroling in a Love Heart course, you agree to abide by these terms and conditions.

2. Payment and Fees

Payment must be completed at the time of booking. All prices are in New Zealand Dollars (NZD) and are inclusive of GST unless otherwise stated. We accept all major credit cards and online payment methods.

3. Cancellation and Refunds

Cancelling More Than 14 Days Before: Full refund

Cancelling 7–14 Days Before: 50% refund

Cancelling Less Than 7 Days Before: No refund

No refund will be made for sessions within courses that are not attended by the participant.

Refunds are processed within 10 business days to your original payment method.

4. Code of Conduct

All participants are expected to treat other members, speakers, and staff with respect and courtesy. Disruptive behavior, harassment, or discrimination will not be tolerated and may result in immediate removal from the course without refund.

5. Health and Safety

Participants attend courses at their own risk. Love Heart is not responsible for any injuries, accidents, or health issues that may occur during courses. Participants with health concerns should consult their healthcare provider before attending.

6. Intellectual Property

All course materials, recordings, and content provided by Love Heart are protected by copyright and are for personal use only. Reproduction, distribution, or commercial use without permission is prohibited.

7. Limitation of Liability

Love Heart Learning Community is not liable for any indirect, incidental, or consequential damages arising from participation in our courses or use of our services.

8. Changes to Terms

Love Heart reserves the right to modify these terms and conditions at any time. Changes will be effective immediately upon posting to the website.

9. Contact Us

If you have any questions about these terms and conditions, please contact us at hello@heart.co.nz.