Beginning Now
Friday 11th September 5pm, to Thursday 17th September 2026 2pm
Where do I start?
I’ve never done a retreat before.
There is so much going on in the world. How can meditation really help me and others?
I wish my busy mind could be quieter and calmer.
Silent for 6 days – how could anyone do that?
Beginning Now is now in its 13th year at Wangapeka and is a wonderful opportunity to develop or refresh a regular meditation practice in a supportive retreat environment. For those new to meditation, it is an opportunity to build your confidence, receive encouragement, and ask questions. For people with experience, it provides an overview, context and skillful tools to enhance your existing practice.
Together we will study and practice the meditation on Breathing. This is a rich meditation, and one of the oldest, that has been taught and practiced continuously since the time of the Buddha. This meditation is founded on a commitment to living an ethical life, providing a practical path for those who aspire to live in the world more wisely and compassionately. It is designed to lead us gradually through the experience of healing and freedom.
This will be a supportive, silent retreat and includes meditation instruction, time for individual practice, opportunities for questions and sharing in the group, as well as space to enjoy just being at the Wangapeka Centre – a truly beautiful environment.
To support the meditation participants will be guided in gentle movement classes, bringing ease to body and mind. Taking some time to retreat is a gift for yourself and others and this course will equip you with the confidence and the skills to practice well in the midst of your daily life.
The facilitators, Kath Mitchell and Mark Schrader, are experienced meditators who bring their creativity, care and skills to this retreat.
Course fee– includes food, accommodation, cooks fee, and a resource fee
Non-members – $708 plus dana/koha
Members – $648 plus *dana/koha
The Teachings are offered freely although you are invited to offer the facilitators dana/koha.
*Dana–the Teaching is offered freely although you are welcome to offer the facilitators dana as an expression of your openhearted generosity and support for the Teachings. Dana translates as ‘generosity’ – an act that empowers giver and receiver – and is at the core of everything that happens at the Wangapeka Study and Retreat Centre. You can bring cash if you wish to make this as a financial offering.
For more information contact Kath, the Course Manager – mitchell.kath@gmail.com
The Facilitators – Kath and Mark have facilitated meditation retreats and workshops individually and collaboratively. They have an extensive background in meditation and retreat work and have studied closely with their teachers over many years (specifically Ven. Namgyal Rinpoche, Bonni Ross, Tarchin Hearn and Cecile Kwiat). Mark and Kath’s approach to teaching meditation is to gently encourage each person to touch into their inherent wisdom with friendliness and humour.
Registration
To register please fill out our online registration form