Hypertufa means fake tufa. Tufa is a lime based rock that was formed by calcium deposition underwater. We don't have access to this rock in New Zealand. Our lime stone is a good substitute and you can get a blank and carve out holes... more on this later.
Hypertufa uses cement and it does not have the porosity of tufa and roots cannot grow through it. However it is still a very good way to grow special small plants. it can be solid and made in moulds, which might include using the soil as an informal mould. These pots are very heavy.
If you want an easily made and portable troughs try using recycled polystyrene bins as a base. It is lightweight. You can make your own "rocks" too to further reduce the weight. Finally choose a mix without sand or pebbles to save another kilogram. Pumice is the thing here.
These troughs all age well. Material that can rot, like coir or wood chop will eventually become small holes which is a great look. There are ways to increase the rate of aging. The day after completon a light water blast from a hose or water-blaster can remove fines , anotehr way to make the pot look older.
Classes will be available through the NZAGS or through Ortel in the future. let me know if you have a group or if you are personally interested.