Entering into simplicity

A retreat for newcomers

Rings of a tree trunk with a green frond towards the heart of the rings

(Please note the retreat starts Friday night and ends at midday on Monday.)

Step into the elemental beauty of Sudarshanaloka Retreat Centre in the Coromandel hills, and a simple programme of meditation, ritual and good company.

The programme is suitable for newcomers with some experience, as well as those who are completely unfamiliar with our practices.

Those who have attended previously are very welcome to return as although the programme may have similarities, each retreat is as unique as those who attend.

Every Buddhist tradition has its own system of practice - the way its members practice the Buddhist path together. One unique aspect of ours is its focus on the importance of spiritual friendship. As you might expect, our retreats will include periods of meditation, ritual, silence and Dharma instruction, as well as time to connect with each other over what matters most.

What to expect on this retreat:

  • A period of meditation (with leg stretches) between 7 and 9am, followed by breakfast
  • A talk, discussion and / or reflective practice from mid-morning until lunchtime
  • A spacious afternoon to enjoy the hills, rivers and forests
  • An early evening practice session, followed by dinner
  • An evening ritual practice
  • A short work period with others each day, as we share simple food preparation and clean-up over the retreat period
  • Numbers will be limited to 14 (including those leading)

When

Start: 27 September 2024 at 6:00pm
Finish: 30 September 2024 at 11:00am

Cost

$330 (full) / $290 (low)
Please don't let money be a barrier - contact us for options
Youth Special: $180 for those under 35 who are willing to camp (you'll need to bring your own camping gear)

Click here to see retreat refund policy

Caring for each other's health

Before attending, please read our current Covid Guidelines. This is part of how we practice together.

Location

Image of Sudarshanaloka
Sudarshanaloka

Tararu Valley, Thames

Led by

Portrait of Lokapala
Lokapala

Lokapala was ordained in 1992 after finding the Triratna Buddhist Community in London. He moved to NZ 20 years ago and currently lives in Tauranga. …

Portrait of Sthiraratna
Sthiraratna

Sthiraratna ('steer-a-rat-na') is the Auckland Buddhist Centre Manager and has been involved in the Triratna movement since around 2010, in both…

Bookings for this event are now closed