Courage! Tara for Today Retreat
with
Bonni Ross
Wangapeka Study & Retreat Centre
Twenty years ago, for two months in 1999, a band of self-described “non-group” men and women took the meditation of the 21 manifestations of Green Tara on an extraordinary adventure that began in Granity on the West Coast, turned left at Haast, paused in Queenstown, and ended at Wangapeka, where the blessings of our work together were offered to the land. Happy anniversary!
What frightens you? What paralyses you? What threatens you? What makes you stupid?
More important: what helps? Steadfast open-heartedness. Clear thinking. Transformative meditation. Community. Personal resilience. Robust sense of humour. Stick-to-it-ivness.
We’re going to go beyond the traditional retreat format into a deep examination of the planetary and personal challenges of today. This work will be grounded in the practice of the Green Arya Tara, she who nurtures, removes obstacles, protects and strengthens. Her qualities of mind lead us to wise and compassionate action.
We will also work as a community, sharing our experience of being alive today. We’ll work on the land together, create beauty together, and meditate deeply, both together and privately. In the profound oasis of sanity that is Wangapeka, we’ll learn to be better helpers in the chaos of this time.
Participants should be in relatively good physical and emotional health. Preference will be given to those able to commit to the whole retreat.
Cost
Includes food, accommodation and a resource fee (but does not include dana to the teacher)
- Member: (Unit) Total cost = $2,300
- Non-Member: (Unit) Total cost = $2,600
- Member: (Camping) Total cost = $1,910
- Non-Member: (Camping) Total cost = $2,000
- Plus Dana for Bonni.
If using Paypal please add 5% of the total cost and include with your payment to cover Paypal’s fees – many thanks.
These priceless teachings are given freely by Bonni.
Traditionally an offering of dana is made to the teacher at the beginning of the retreat and is a profound practice in itself. Giving can help us open; and through an open hearted state of receptivity, we can find ourselves more able to receive.
Please bring cash if you would like to make a financial contribution to the Teacher. Giving as generously as you can enables Bonni to continue sharing the precious Buddhadharma for the benefit to all. Thank you.
Bonni Ross has taught extensively at the Wangapeka over the last 30 years and is a deeply respected ‘Centre Elder’.
Bonni began exploring the teachings of liberation in the early sixties. In the mid 70’s she met her principal teacher, Venerable Namgyal Rinpoche, whose direct, eclectic teaching and example are central to her life.
For the last six years, Bonni and her partner Matthew Eades accepted an invitation to spend 6 months of every year in Nelson, New Zealand. They have taught a full, dynamic, coherent study and practice programme which has included annual retreats at the Wangapeka, Dharma classes, workshops in the city, and individual and group meditation instruction.
In addition, they have supported the activities of the Wangapeka in countless ways contributing to the humming centre that exists there now. Recently Bonni and Matthew have moved to Nelson, New Zealand.
The Wangapeka Retreat Experience
Whenua Land
The retreat takes place on the beautiful Wangapeka whenua nestled in stunning native forests with expansive views down the Wangapeka valley. The land itself provides a healing sanctuary surrounded by mature trees and offering the perfect environment for reflection and reconnection with nature.
Kainga Accommodation
Accommodation is included in the price of the retreat, with all rooms being comfortable and well-appointed with single beds and electric heating. Shared bathroom facilities are conveniently located close to all rooms.
Kai Food
All meals are included in this retreat to support the your well-being and focus. Our kitchen team prepares nourishing vegetarian food to sustain and delight you throughout your stay. Specific dietary requirements can be accommodated and self-catering is also possible if you prefer to bring and prepare your own food.
Whare Wānanga Teaching Space
This teaching room is beautifully crafted and has been used for a wide variety of teaching for over 20 years. It has a wooden parquet floor and a pot belly stove to keep away winter chills. Set amongst beautiful mature trees, it offers a charming view looking down the Wangapeka valley, creating an inspiring environment for movement and meditation practices.
Whare kai Main Hall
The original building at Wangapeka, the Main Hall serves as the heart of community life with its combined living and dining room, library, and welcoming wood burner. Tea, coffee, and snacks are freely available here throughout your stay. Whether you choose to relax in the cosy interior or step out onto the porch to enjoy the expansive views, this space invites connection and contemplation. The hall also houses the kitchen, bathroom facilities, and laundry for your convenience.
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