LIVING THE VOW … Bodhisattva Activity in this World
with
Bonni Ross
Wangapeka Study & Retreat Centre
Take responsibility; gather wisdom; make friends.
Together, make a world.
We are the only species on this world capable of awakening.
We are the awakening of our world.
Glimpses of the qualities of awakened mind sparkle through in our minds. And then we read or watch the news. How to hold this paradox: every human has Buddhanature; but there is so much crazy!
Just as historical bodhisattvas have understood that the most far-reaching way to help others attain freedom and happiness is by training themselves in the Six Perfections, so must we. Through an enthusiastic life of offering, ethical integrity, forbearance, strength and meditation we create an intentional force of liberation that supports and transforms all of life. There is no template other than this for bodhisattva activity.
In our action-oriented society, time out for internal healing and development is rare. However, without exploring the depth and breadth of our minds, our wholesome actions are limited. In this retreat, we will share with one another, study and practice strategically. We’ll pause, enter the darkness and the silence, alone-together.
“It’s in this world, where our ankles go out from under us,
Our hearts get broken,
And we weep tears that are solvents for whatever is stuck within us
That awakening can happen.”— from VIMALAKIRTI AND THE AWAKENED HEART by Joan Sutherland
This retreat is designed for experienced practitioners whose motivation in life is infused with The Bodhisattva Vow. If you wish to attend this retreat, there is a 2-step process of application and registration.
Application: Please write a letter telling us about yourself (even if you think we should know already.) Include when you first received The Bodhisattva Vow, and what your experience of living with that vow since then has been. Add any other information you feel is relevant. Send it as soon as you can.
Please send in your application letter and wait to hear from the Course Manager before registering. Applications for this retreat are now CLOSED.
Costs include single room accommodation, meals, payment for the cook and a resource fee. It does not include dana to the teacher.
Accommodation in a Unit or Hut
- Members $2,462
- Non members $2,742
Camping
- Members $1,958
- Non members $2,042
Bonni Ross has taught extensively at the Wangapeka over the last 30 years and is a deeply respected ‘Centre Elder’. She guides individuals in developing focused and skillful meditation and leads retreats for depth unfoldment.
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. Bonni teaches from a deep wealth of meditative experience. She communicates with sensitivity, creativity and humour in a way that resonates with each individual present.
Bonni is one of the founders of the dharmasphere collective and one of the visionaries behind the innovative project ‘2020 A Year of Clear Vision’.
She is inspired by ‘ordinary’ people who demonstrate exceptional courage and compassion in the midst of great suffering. Somewhat unexpectedly, Bonni now finds herself living in Nelson, and is currently deeply engaged in studying Maoritanga.
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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