
Nature & Seasonal Connection
19–22 June 2025
Join us for a three-night retreat to honour Matariki and the winter solstice—a time for renewal, reflection, and connection. Designed to cultivate tranquillity and well-being, this retreat offers a special opportunity to deepen your yoga practice while embracing the traditional significance of Matariki.
Take advantage of the Matariki public holiday on Friday and gift yourself this time to rest, reflect, and recharge.
- Waihōanga’s natural surroundings – Recharge amidst lush bush, open skies, and the tranquil surroundings of this special place
- Ōtaki River – A peaceful place for contemplation (or a brisk winter swim!)
- Stargazing – Observe the Pleiades (Matariki) and connect with the rhythms of nature
- Intention setting – Honour the Māori New Year and the winter solstice with meaningful reflection


The Venue
Waihōanga Retreat, Ōtaki Gorge
Waihōanga
- Warm and welcoming spaces – Gather around roaring fires and communal areas for connection and relaxation.
- Comfortable accommodation – Heated rooms, cosy beds, and optional hot water bottles for a restful night’s sleep.
- Time to unwind – Plenty of space for quiet reflection, rest, or curling up with a book.
Waihōanga is a beautiful retreat centre, offering a peaceful escape from city life. In recent years, the lodge, cabins, and surrounding grounds have been thoughtfully updated, creating an even more welcoming and comfortable environment.
Accommodation options are in shared rooms and cabins. A limited number of single rooms (including an Airbnb next door) available on a first-come, first-served basis.
We will have exclusive use of this secluded, serene and special venue.


The Retreat
Yoga
Retreat Schedule
7:30 – 8:00 AM – Meditation
8:00 – 9:00 AM – Breakfast (self-serve) and break
9:00 – 11:30 AM – Asana
12:00 PM – Lunch
Afternoon – Free time to relax and explore
4:30 – 6:30 PM – Afternoon asana
6:30 PM – Dinner and dessert
8:15 – 8.45 PM – Evening meditation
Rest and early nights – Noble silence until 9 AM
(Pranayama will be integrated into the asana sessions.)
Nourishing Food & Comfort
Delicious, wholesome vegan meals – We are delighted to introduce our new chef, who will be preparing scrumptious, hearty, and seasonal dishes to nourish and sustain you throughout the retreat. Light, self-serve breakfast – Enjoy a simple, nourishing start to the day at your own pace. Tea, coffee, and fresh fruit available – Help yourself throughout the day. Delicious lunches, dinners, and desserts – Thoughtfully crafted meals designed to warm and restore.
Accommodation
Three nights’ twin or single accommodation.
Travelling to and from the retreat
Starts: Thursday at 5 PM (arrivals from 3 PM) Finishes: Sunday at 2 PM (after lunch)
We can accommodate late arrivals on Thursday—just let us know in advance.
We can look at carpooling closer to the time for those who would like to share transport.
Reserve your place
Cost (all inclusive)
$1080 twin share
Deposit: $295 (non refundable)
Limited single accommodation subject to availability
To reserve your place, register interest, or for further enquiries, please email Tessa: tessa@wellingtonyoga.co.nz
Limited to 16 participants.

