with
Bonni Ross
Wangapeka Study & Retreat Centre
Five families, five wisdoms, five activities, five characteristics, five syllables, five skandhas and many more fives. If this sounds confusing, please be reminded that the differences are conceptual, not actual. While investigating qualities of awakened nature in ourselves, perhaps some will discover the indivisible, universal consciousness from which all differentiation arises.
Beginners’ mind offers an uncomplicated state that is harder for the mentally-sophisticated than for those innocent of conceptual knowledge. Together we will learn, and unlearn what gets in the way of liberation.
This retreat will be predominantly silent. In addition to meditation instruction, opportunities to ask questions and individual and group practice, there will be time to immerse ourselves in the supportive natural environment of the Centre.
The terrain is quite rugged and participants should be in reasonably good physical and mental health to enjoy the challenges, inner and outer, of retreat life at the Wangapeka.
Priority will be given to those who can attend the whole retreat, but if space allows, it is possible to attend for a shorter period so long as you start at the beginning.
Bonni first heard the teachings of the Buddha when she was 17. After ten years of fluffing around, she met Namgyal Rinpoche and got serious. His direct, eclectic teaching and example are central to her life. Encouragement from His Holiness the 16th Karmapa, teachings from many great Buddhist masters, as well as innovative artists, scientists, philosophers and mystery writers, have fuelled the quest.
Inspiration comes from “ordinary” people who demonstrate exceptional courage and compassion in the midst of great suffering. With her partner, Matthew Eades, she founded Sunshine Coast Retreat House in 2002 before moving to Nelson, New Zealand in 2017. After over 40 years of teaching and service in community, they will now focus on long term retreat at Wangapeka Study and Retreat Centre, in Tasman New Zealand.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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