William SmithIn the bustling city of Auckland, amidst the urban hustle and bustle, lies a haven of tranquility: retreats in Auckland. These sanctuaries offer an escape from the chaos of daily life, providing a space for relaxation, rejuvenation, and self-discovery.
From serene coastal getaways to lush forest hideaways, Auckland’s retreats cater to a diverse range of needs and interests. Whether you seek yoga and meditation, or simply a peaceful retreat into nature, Auckland offers some of the best options to treat yourself.
1. Te Wahi Ora Women’s Retreat
Address: 129 Marine Parade North, Piha 0772
Website: https://www.tewahiora.co.nz/
Contact Details: + 64 9 8128775, [email protected]
Pricing:
- Chalet or Retro Caravan – $195 including GST for 24 hours (includes meals, and snacks)
- The Seaview Suite – $260 including GST for 24 hours (includes meals, and snacks) with ensuite & double bed (+$100 extra for two women sharing)
- Daisy Lounge – $260 including GST for 24 hours (includes meals, and snacks)
- Garden Room – $180 including GST for 24 hours (includes meals, and snacks)
Te Wahi Ora Women’s Retreat is a haven for women seeking solace amidst the stunning landscapes of Auckland’s west coast beach, Piha. For over 25 years, this retreat has been designed and operated by women.
It offers a range of accommodation options, from deluxe sea view suites to quaint individual chalets and retro caravans. At Te Wahi Ora, guests are treated to more than just accommodation – all meals are provided, ensuring a truly restful experience.
Additionally, the retreat offers optional counseling and massage services to enhance relaxation and rejuvenation. Linens, towels, and bedding are supplied, ensuring a hassle-free stay for every guest.
Guests, whether solo or in groups, find a nurturing environment for self-care amidst Auckland’s coastal beauty. Meanwhile, bookings are essential for those looking to immerse themselves in the tranquility of this retreat.
| Pro tip: Take some time to explore the beautiful Piha Beach nearby. It’s a picturesque spot for a leisurely stroll or a rejuvenating dip in the ocean. |
2. Kawai Purapura Retreat Centre
Address: 14 Mills Lane, Albany, Auckland 0632
Website: https://kawaipurapura.co.nz/
Contact Details: (+64) 27 228 5931, [email protected]
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: 9 AM–5 PM
Kawai Purapura Retreat Centre offers an affordable stay with essential amenities. Here, you’ll enjoy a shared kitchen, swimming pool, sauna, spa, and complimentary yoga classes.
This retreat center offers four workshop spaces: Prema Lounge, Shanti Yoga Studio, Lotus Sanctuary, and Whare Kahikatea. Each provides an ideal environment for self-exploration, growth, and well-being activities like yoga and meditation.
Situated amidst 19 acres of native bush, this retreat promises tranquility without TVs, yet remains close to Albany Mall and Cinema complex. It’s conveniently located just 15 km from Auckland CBD, and 33 km from the airport, with easy access to the motorway.
You can also explore nearby attractions like Harbour Hockey and Gills Scenic Reserve during their stay. Moreover, you can relax at the retreat’s picnic area, coffee shop, or poolside sun terrace.
| Pro tip: Don’t forget your yoga mat and comfortable clothing for the complimentary yoga classes. It’s the perfect opportunity to unwind and connect with your inner self. |
3. Dorje Chang Institute
– Media: HashiAbey
Address: 56 Powell Street, Avondale, Auckland 1026
Website: https://www.dci.org.nz/
Contact Details: (09) 828 3333, [email protected]
Dorje Chang Institute, a Tibetan Buddhist Centre, has offered meditation instruction and Buddhist philosophy classes since 1976. Supported by donations and volunteers, it provides a peaceful environment for Dharma practice and study.
This institute, a Registered Charitable Trust, relies on community support to maintain its peaceful oasis in the city. Currently seeking volunteers for orchard care, weed removal, and tree maintenance, it aims to enhance its green spaces for the benefit of all visitors.
With a focus on nurturing the land and fostering sustainability, they welcome volunteers of all backgrounds to contribute to its mission. They are hoping to preserve this peaceful retreat and cultivate a space for spiritual growth and well-being in Auckland.
| Pro tip: The discussion groups after teachings are super insightful. Don’t be shy to share your thoughts and questions with the group. |
4. Aio Wira Seminar & Retreat Centre
Address: 8 Aio Wira Road, Waitākere, Auckland 0653
Website: http://www.aiowira.org.nz/
Contact Details: 09 810 9396, [email protected]
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: Open 24 hours
Nestled within the undisturbed Waitakere Ranges, Aio Wira Seminar & Retreat Centre offers a tranquil escape from the bustle of city life. As an Auckland-based retreat venue, it hosts wellness workshops and holistic retreats near the scenic Bethells Beach.
A popular choice for group gatherings, it provides self-catering accommodations for up to 25 guests. These are complemented by amenities like a spa, sauna, and meditation sanctuary.
With a focus on holistic well-being, Aio Wira welcomes visitors to rejuvenate through activities such as silent retreats, yoga, meditation, and fasting retreats. Its lush native bush surroundings provide an idyllic backdrop for relaxation and self-reflection.
Catering to health practitioners, the center offers an ideal space to facilitate group workshops and courses. Whether seeking solace in nature or engaging in shared learning experiences, it can accommodate up to 20 participants comfortably.
| Pro tip: Engage in the communal dining experience. Sharing meals with fellow retreatants fosters a sense of community and provides opportunities for enriching conversations and new friendships. |
5. Vaughan Park Anglican Retreat Centre
– Media: Spiritualism New Zealand
Address: 1043 Beach Road, Torbay, Auckland 0630
Website: http://www.vaughanpark.org.nz/
Contact Details: +64 9 473 2600
Operating Hours: Monday-Friday: 8:30 AM–5 PM, Saturday & Sunday: 10 AM–2 PM
Vaughan Park Anglican Retreat Centre is one of Auckland’s premier retreat destinations. It offers comfortable accommodation, well-equipped meeting rooms, and a tranquil chapel.
As an Anglican retreat and conference center, Vaughan Park welcomes a diverse range of guests. These include individuals, businesses, and church groups, fostering Christian ministry through hospitality and worship.
Nestled at the south end of Long Bay beach, it provides a calm setting for contemplation with a dedicated research center. Moreover, it offers full catering, conference facilities, and retreat options, ensuring a rejuvenating experience for all.
| Pro tip: Don’t miss out on the retreat center’s library. It’s a cozy spot perfect for curling up with a good book or diving into some quiet reflection. |
6. Karma Choeling Buddhist Monastery
– Media: Jing
Address: 66 Bodhisattva Road, Waitoki 0994
Website: https://kagyu.org.nz/
Contact Details: 0800 367 222, [email protected]
At Karma Choeling Buddhist Monastery, guests can partake solitary or prolonged retreats in rustic huts amidst serene surroundings. For a holistic experience, Traditional Tibetan healthcare services like diet guidance and herbal remedies are also available.
During non-retreat stays, guests are encouraged to join daily spiritual activities, including two one-hour meditation sessions in the Temple each day. Visitors must also adhere to the monastery’s code: refrain from killing, stealing, lying, or intoxicants.
Accommodation options range from shared dormitories to private huts, depending on availability. Cooking facilities are communal, with bedding provided, although guests may want to bring extra blankets for colder months.
Additionally, guests have the opportunity to contribute to monastery tasks, such as gardening and cleaning, in exchange for reduced accommodation costs. This allows for a balanced retreat experience that combines work and personal interests.
| Pro tip: During retreats, silence is key. Take this opportunity to really connect with yourself and the peaceful surroundings. |
7. Sacred Earth Retreat
Address: 132 Lone Kauri Road, Karekare 0772
Website: https://www.sacredearthnz.com/
Contact Details: +64 27 269 5916, [email protected]
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: Open 24 hours
Sacred Earth Retreat offers a serene escape for personal reflection and group workshops against Auckland’s west coast backdrop. Their eco-friendly guest houses overlook stunning ocean vistas with direct access to trails and black-sand beaches.
With a meditation temple and a magnificent Maori Pou, Sacred Earth fosters a deep connection between spirit and nature. Here, volunteers can immerse themselves in yoga, meditation, and transformative service within a spiritually-oriented community.
Sacred Earth Retreat is passionate about natural health, sustainable living, and inner exploration. With these, they invite guests to rediscover wholeness and transcend limitations amidst Karekare’s breathtaking natural beauty.
| Pro tip: Indulge in the delicious organic produce grown right on the retreat grounds. From fresh vegetables to medicinal herbs, each meal is a celebration of sustainable living and natural health. |
8. Bella Rakha Retreat Centre
– Media: Nina Gastreich
Address: 581 West Coast Road, Oratia, Auckland 0604
Website: http://www.retreatcentres.co.nz/about-us/
Contact Details: +64 9 818 8880, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
Bella Rakha is a retreat center and creative venue nestled on 32 acres at the base of the Waitakere Ranges. With a mix of native bush and open spaces, it offers a tranquil setting for various events like meditative retreats, workshops, and corporate gatherings.
Ideal for both residential and day groups, it hosts a range of activities and events just 25 minutes from Auckland CBD. With diverse buildings catering to different needs, they offer options for meetings, accommodations, dining, and recreation.
Their cost-effective group accommodation can house up to 40 people, providing a serene environment perfect for a change of scenery. They also offer flexible services, from self-service to full-service catering, to meet the needs and budget of each event.
Whether for team building, creative endeavors, or outdoor activities, Bella Rakha Retreat Centre provides a welcoming space for groups seeking inspiration and rejuvenation near Auckland.
| Pro tip: Since Bella Rakha offers a mix of indoor and outdoor activities, pack comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for both. Layers are a good idea, as the weather in Auckland can be unpredictable. |
9. Stargate Forest Retreat
Address: 323 Smyth Road, Dome Forest 0981
Website: https://stargateforest.com/
Contact Details: +64 21 367 411, [email protected]
Operating Hours: Monday-Saturday: 9 AM–5 PM, Sunday: Closed
Stargate Forest Retreat offers a quiet escape just 50 minutes from Auckland CBD. Its pristine surroundings and captivating views make it an ideal venue for corporate wellness events or spiritual growth retreats.
Surrounded by nature’s beauty, Stargate Forest provides a placid setting for rejuvenation and inner healing. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or reconnection with yourself, this luxury retreat offers the perfect sanctuary.
Upon arrival, guests are greeted by the calming ambiance of the forest, where time seems to stand still. The retreat’s elevated position offers breathtaking vistas of Warkworth and Kawau Island, enhancing the sense of peace and tranquility.
With private walking tracks, stunning waterfalls, and abundant wildlife, Stargate Forest Retreat invites guests to immerse themselves in the natural wonders of New Zealand. Visitors find solace and serenity amidst nature at this idyllic retreat space.
| Pro tip: With all that lush greenery, bugs are part of the deal. Keep those pesky mosquitoes at bay, so you can fully enjoy your outdoor adventures. |
10. Mana Retreat Centre
Address: 608 Manaia Road, Coromandel 3581
Website: https://manaretreat.com/
Contact Details: +64 7 866 8972, [email protected]
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: 9 AM–6 PM
For over three decades, Mana Retreat Centre has been a hub for group retreats, workshops, and personal development training. They offer mind-body education and spiritual exploration.
Supported by volunteers and local staff, Mana operates as a charitable trust, dedicated to promoting holistic wellness. Their mission is to foster an environment of beauty, simplicity, and inspiration, creating a space for individuals to realize their full potential.
Collaborating with renowned local and international teachers, Mana offers a diverse retreat schedule encompassing yoga, dance, mindfulness, and more. Their lodging with shared room options also makes it budget-friendly and accessible for everyone.
Whether you’re craving a relaxing getaway or a transformative experience, Mana Retreat Centre offers something for everyone, inviting guests to immerse themselves in mind, body, and soul enrichment.
| Pro tip: Make time for outdoor activities such as hiking, forest bathing, or simply lounging in nature. The natural beauty surrounding Mana offers a therapeutic escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. |
