Tēnā koutou katoa, apologies for the slowing of regular Kumanu over these summer months. We have been meeting as usual, but my writing has not kept up as I’ve found myself swamped by life’s demands. However, here is a summer Kumanu for you, sent with much appreciation, particularly for those on the ground, both at the Wangapeka Centre and on …
Beginning Again Retreat Reflection by Annie Wilson
I sit here from my computer in Hawkes Bay, amidst the aftermath of Cyclone Gabrielle, thinking how lucky I am to have found a refuge. A refuge that I can come to whenever I please, a refuge that is always there with warm welcoming arms, and a refuge that safeguards me from any wild happenings that are going on around …
I Vow : Harnessing The Power Of Intention by Ruth Lumsden and Bridget Musters
Retreat reflections from Ruth Lumsden and Bridget Musters Ruth Lumsden A profound retreat for me. And a joy to be back at the Wangapeka, my spiritual turangawaewae. I felt supported in my individual work by my fellow retreatants, and I welcomed the challenges that Bonni guided us through with her sharp, sparkling wit and wisdom. Wonderful to unplug from news of climate …
A Very Special Baby Blessing by Elli Yates
Stardust, Starlight and a very special blessing of babes! On a stunning, sunny Sunday morning as the Stardust, Starlight retreat was settling in, the group of retreatants gathered in a circle in the Main Hall for a very unique and powerful experience. Holding a white cord of protection and blessing, the group encircled the 3 families who had been invited …
Kumanu December 2022
Kia ora tātou, writing to you from wet and thunderous Waikanae, hoping you are well and happy as we approach the longest day of the year. The combination of summer solstice and Christmas makes for a busy, full, festive energy … we hope you are riding the activity of the season with a steady sense of the ground under your …
Site Blessing For New Teachers Cabin
The site was blessed Saturday January 7th. Members of the Board of Trustees, current caretakers, local sangha, and many donors were in attendance. It was beautiful. We managed to be rain-free. Thank You to Bonni Ross and Matthew Eades for the blessing ceremony. Also, donations have increased by $20,000. The total now stands at $183,950.54. Information on project and “How …
Kumanu November 2022
[Google Document] Kia ora koutou, we trust this Kumanu Report finds you well and happy. This month the Board met on site at the Wangapeka, sharing a lovely weekend of cakes, kōrero and warm spring rains. It was a good opportunity to connect with both Jacinta and Tracy as the two caretakers overlapped before Jacinta heads to Nelson, and Tracy …
Reflections on the Namgyal Meditations Day By Jenny Kelso
I arrived later than planned but it was a wonderful relief to be welcomed at the gates of the Wangapeka centre by a profusion of pale lemon rhododendron flowers. “You have arrived”. Yay. Phew. Breathe. Smile. Two caretakers arrived shortly afterwards: Jacinta, getting ready to leave, and Tracy settling into her new role. The whole place looked great already, sparkling …
Reflections after Pā’s retreat By Mitzi Borren
Our Differences Are Our Strengths – Mitzi Borren It was by a stroke of synchronicity that my first stay at the Wangapeka was spent immersed in the wisdom and teachings of Rob McGowan. As a student on several of Rob’s rongoā māori wananga I was familiar with his captivating blend of humour and humility with an inspiring depth of knowledge …
Reflections after Pā’s retreat By Elli Yates
Reflections on Kaitiakitanga weekend with Pā Ropata, by Elli Yates Arriving at the Centre for the weekend I felt a new type of anticipation rising. Knowing that we were hosting one of Aotearoa’s leading rongoā experts, I felt excited to welcome him and in doing so unite with others in the sangha to ‘show’ who / how / what we …








