Help us with our retreat centre on the west coast of Auckland, NZ

New Zealand

Favourited 1502 times

Host rating
Feedback
57
Last activity
04/08/2020
Reply rate
96.7 %
Average reply time:
within 3 days
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Availability

2020

Min stay requested: at least 2 weeks

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Description
We are a small spiritually orientated community and forest retreat living in close connection with nature. We are passionate about natural health and healing ,(growing organic veges and medicinal herbs on the land ) yoga and meditation, sustainable lifestyles, serving community, and exploring the true nature of our inner being. We have a large temple overlooking the ocean dedicated to the oneness of all .
Type of help
Gardening
Building
General Maintenance
Help in the house
Help with Computers / internet
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
Opportunity to learn and or practice meditation and yoga in a beautiful temple overlooking the ocean. Learn about New Zealand's native plants and get to experience something of the rugged and beautiful wild west coast of Auckland, NZ, where you will find amazing forest, waterways, beaches and bird life. We have a surf board available for keen surfers.
Help
Contribute to an unfolding vision of a forest meditation retreat in multiple areas dependent on skill and interest. We do gardening and landscaping working to create a native plant and bird sanctuary , maintain bush tracks, grow organic veges and herbs, clean and beautify the temple and retreat facilities as well as working on projects to create sacred sites.
We set up the charitable trust over fifteen years ago to provide natural therapies education, support the environment and provide healing environments for spiritual practice. Our small retreat provides the opportunity for dis-advantaged youth to have regular mediation and mindfulness retreats.
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Accommodation
Forest cabin, double, single or twin share room, with access to full facilities
What else ...
If you enjoy yoga and meditation or just the beauty and peacefulness of nature away from the hustle and bustle of modern day life you will enjoy your stay. We have amazing waterholes for swimming with waterfalls, some of the most spectacular bush and coastal walks in New Zealand, and we are a 40 min walk to one of New Zealand's best beaches. A surf board is available. We offer transport (7 mins) to the beach 3 days per week.The Hillary trail is at our doorstep and it is possible for a tent and cooker to be provided if you wish to take some days adventuring.

We have a large meditation temple dedicated to the oneness of all people and religions. There is meditation and chanting early morning (optional) and generally two free yoga classes per week.

There`s limited reception on the land, if you wish to stay connected during your stay, Spark and Skinny SIM cards will have the best connectivity.
A little more information
- Internet access
- Limited internet access
- We have pets
- We are smokers
- Can host families
How many Workawayers can stay?
More than two
Hours expected
16 hours over 4 days. We provide one substantial meal each working day

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Feedback left by and about host (57)

These are extra optional ratings when members leave feedback. The average rating left for each option is displayed.

Accuracy of profile:
(4.7)

Cultural exchange:
(4.4)

Communication:
(4.1)

17/06/2020

Left by Workawayer (jarmila) for host

Kia Ora, after the initial wait for over 3 hours for my host to meet with me, I was with few other workaways taken to very interesting and busy. I met many most lovely diversity of young people, lovely and very kind host Philip. The work was pretty intense and sometimes challenging which was very welcome opportunity to sharpen skills, gain new… read more

(Good )

31/05/2020

Left by Workawayer (emanuela) for host

I will forever be grateful for having the chance to spend some time here. I will never forget the peace of mind that I experienced in that place. The nature and the view of the ocean over there can't be described with words.
The work was enjoyable and varied (from gardening to cleaning/ironing etc) and we were always reworded with a nice… read more

(Excellent )

14/03/2020

Left by host for Workawayer (Sara & Jane)

Beautiful girls with so much curiosity for life. Very hard working, punctual, open, committed and easy going. We loved hosting you and we wish you all the best for your future!

(Excellent )

28/01/2020

Left by Workawayer (Sara & Jane) for host

We stayed 2 weeks here and it was a great experience. We worked with other volunteers and had lots of talks and yoga together.
The work was mostly about cleaning, making the beds, ironing, and weeding. We work from 8:30 to 12:45 and then we could have big lunch (vegetarian friendly) made by lovely Lesley. The meal was awesome. So delicious and… read more

(Excellent )

14/03/2020

Left by host for Workawayer (Eline & Bob)

What a delight to host you! Beautiful humans from inside and out. Caring and curious with the warmest heart. Thank you for being YOU and we would love to have you again in the future. They both were easy going and incredible people to be around. Best of luck and much love to you both!

(Excellent )

03/03/2020

Left by Workawayer (Eline & Bob) for host

We had an amazing experience staying with Phil and Jenny at the West Coast of Auckland. The minute we arrived, we felt that this place/earth had something special. This special feeling of the land combined with the community and other volunteers, made it an experience that we look back at with warm feelings.

We would like to thank in special;… read more

(Excellent )

05/03/2020

Left by Workawayer (DA SILVA OLIVER) for host

My workaway experience in Sacred hearth was amazing. Leslie is a wonderful woman always to help others. Unfortunallly I had to leave earlier and I couldn't say her bye bye.
There was a festival in Albany Ashram during my stay and I coudn't see much Jenny, she was very busy. Philippe and Jenny were very friendly and welcoming. Thank you very much… read more

(Excellent )

30/11/2019

Left by Workawayer (Aislinn) for host

Such a beautiful experience. I loved every minute of my stay here. From the moment I arrived and saw the breathing views of Karekare beach, I was in love. Great place to get away from it all and relax in nature. Jenny was very helpful and offered to show us around after lunch each day. Leslie entertained us with lively stories and made the most… read more

(Excellent )

16/08/2019

Left by Workawayer (Kirsty & Jakub) for host

I had a great time at the retreat centre! Work load was reasonable, communication excellent, views incredible and food absolutely delicious! Lesley is the loveliest chef ever - she was always very positive and prepared fresh, healthy lunch every working day. All the residents who stay there long-term are very knowledgeable and generous too so… read more

(Excellent )

17/07/2019

Left by host for Workawayer (Clément)

What an awesome guy! We feel honored to be workaway hosts because we get to spend time with such amazing people from all around the world. Clement contributed to our lives in many positive ways and we will miss his company and smiles. Bad weather prevented exploring more of the wild west coast, but it was great to get one hike together to the… read more

(Excellent )

06/05/2019

Left by Workawayer (Sonya & Greg) for host

This was our first workaway experience ever, as well as our first location in New Zealand. We came as a family of 5, us, with our 3 children (2 of them older teens). It was myself (mom) and my girls that did the work while my husband looked for work and helped out whenever he could. My son continued his homeschool education. Jenny offered us the… read more

(Excellent )

23/04/2019

Left by host for Workawayer (Luke)

A fantastic experience with Luke, he brought a special ability to bring oversight and initative to everything he did and added to everyone's experience in many positive ways. An outstanding worker and contributor, his enthusiasm for good works in the world and a caring for this planet and its people shone out like a beacon.

(Excellent )

23/04/2019

Left by Workawayer (Luke) for host

Just got back from a great week. Met some cool people and loved being out in the amazing countryside there. The place where you stay has amazing views out across the hills and the sea, and lots of great places to explore nearby, especially karekare and piha beach. The property even has its own waterfall to explore and swim in. Jenny was very… read more

(Excellent )

13/03/2019

Left by Workawayer (Louise) for host

Volunteering at KP was an incredible experience and completely different to what I could have expected it to be. Even though the retreat itself is gorgeous - filled with beautiful nature, yoga classes and amenities - it was the connected and like-minded volunteers that made the experience unmatched to any other. There’s a special community within… read more

(Excellent )

11/03/2019

Left by Workawayer (Ramon) for host

I was only here for about 10 days and I had the opportunity to experience staying at both of Jenny's centers at Albany and Karekare, both quite different but both very enriching experiences. The latter having less volunteers and residents (but with more time, nature and beautiful scenery) while the former being busier and more social. I can't… read more

(Excellent )

27/02/2019

Left by host for Workawayer (Melissa)

We loved Melissa's passion to help with projects in nature and her love of Ayurveda. Easygoing and capable she was a pleasure to host

(Excellent )

31/01/2018

Left by Workawayer (Melissa) for host

I stayed here for a month and had a really lovely time! Jenny and Phil are quite inspirational people. The other volunteers were so lovely and we had lots of laughs. There are also residents in this area that are really wonderful! I loved the peace and quiet here, (go to the water hole!!!) I enjoyed my time here very much and I'll be volunteering… read more

(Very good )

22/02/2019

Left by Workawayer (Bettina) for host

My first volunteering in New Zeland has been so wonderful as wat I was looking for was tranquillity and a place to stay quiet after my Vipassana Meditation. Jenny is an impressive woman with lots of things to do! And Leslie is lovely! My stayed here was very wonderful as we had done some yoga and spent very nice moments on the beach, rivers,… read more

(Excellent )

21/02/2019

Left by host for Workawayer (Bettina)

A big thanks to Bettina for her wonderful help, highly recommend her for any family or group.

(Excellent )

13/02/2019

Left by host for Workawayer (Sonali)

Words cannot describe the appreciation we have for the two weeks Sonali spent with us. Her ready smile, personality plus, intelligence, perceptiveness and genuine caring, quickly endeared her to all in the Family. Her initiatives and hard work in promoting our sacred journeys to the Indian Himalayas and Tibet was outstanding. When Sonali left for… read more

(Excellent )

13/02/2019

Left by host for Workawayer (Amanda)

Amanda left a book as well as many hand painted cards for us all here. The title of the book 'Stepping into the Magic' describes the wonderful, magical experience we had with Amanda herself. A special time where Amanda quickly endeared herself to everyone with her contribution to both work, yoga classes and the trips we shared, that touched us all.

(Excellent )

05/02/2019

Left by Workawayer (Sara) for host

One of my favorite experiences in New Zealand. The people, the views, the treks, the beaches, the temple, Leslie's amazing meals after a good days work. Inspirational people and environment. The work varies and at times it can be challenging, but it is rewarding and satisfying work. You also have plenty of time to explore the area everyday. Very… read more

(Excellent )

03/02/2019

Left by host for Workawayer (Sara)

It was a tremendous pleasure to host Sara. Her commitment to hard work and her involvement in trips, yoga and kirtan meant she contributed positively to everyone. Her maturity,and calm positive nature make her an asset in any environment. Thank-you Sara.

(Excellent )

27/01/2019

Left by host for Workawayer (Marie )

Marie was a delight to host. An outstanding all rounder she could take responsibility for any task and lead others. Positive and hard working, she brought a great presence and contributed positively in many ways to the lives of everyone, whether they be other volunteers, or residents of the community. We loved her commitment to yoga practice, that… read more

(Excellent )

04/12/2018

Left by Workawayer (Cindy) for host

I spent two weeks there, which were very nice. Dana and Eli, with whom I mainly had contact in the time, were very loving. The tasks were good like gardening and cleaning. We were a close community. This was due to the other workaways but also Ellie and Dana as well as Leslie, who conjured up a wonderful meal every day. Thank you for the… read more

(Excellent )

16/11/2018

Left by Workawayer (Elianne) for host

I stayed here for two weeks and had a great time! Besides the views over the sea, which make for an amazing sunset, it's an great place to visit.

I had the pleasure of working under the supervision of Dana and Ali, who are both wonderful human beings who really looked at your strengths and preferences when it came to work. It truly felt like a… read more

(Excellent )

14/10/2018

Left by Workawayer (Felix) for host

Please see our feedback policy for more info about why this review is not displayed

(Negative )

12/10/2018

Left by Workawayer (Karyn & Jolene) for host

This place is so beautiful and within a short drive to the piha beach. The workaway is up on the hills hence you will be able to enjoy great views and sunsets for free:)

On workdays (Wednesdays to Saturday, 4 hrs each day), delicious lunch will be provided by lovely Leslie. I am not a vegetarian but still enjoyed her meals very much :) Tasks… read more

(Very good )

03/09/2018

Left by Workawayer (Klaudia) for host

Although I stayed only for a couple of days I really enjoyed my time in the centre. The centre is located on the coast and surrounded by nature, so peaceful and beautiful... Jenny was super helpful and always offered her help if we wanted to do some activities in our free time. Leslie cooked absolutely delicious food for us and she made us feel at… read more

(Excellent )

09/07/2018

Left by Workawayer (Frances) for host

Thank you for having me. I spend two weeks here in June and I had a wonderful time. The work was good, it mostly consisted of housekeeping and gardening.. sometimes another odd job. Never too strenuous and never longer then the 4,5 hours a day.
I didn’t get a chance to meet Jenny, since she was leading a retreat in India. The person I worked the… read more

(Excellent )

04/07/2018

Left by Workawayer (Katerina ) for host

I stayed 10 days at this really stunning place. I really enjoyed the surrounding beauty, relaxing atmoshpere, good people and practising yoga or just relaxing in the temple.
The work was fine, mainly cleaning or garden work without a rush which I enjoyed.
The food prepared by Leslie was always super delicious and I enjoyed the Tea time listening… read more

(Excellent )

10/06/2018

Left by Workawayer (David) for host

One of the most spectacularly beautiful places I've been. Jenny has great stories and local knowledge. Phil is a bluegrass fan like me and an interesting conversationalist. My accommodation was a small cabin to myself and it was simple but tastefully furnished. Phil and Jenny are generous even loaning their car for trips to Piha beach for surf and… read more

(Excellent )

12/05/2018

Left by host for Workawayer (David)

Love in Action... David exemplified the true nature of service in all the work he undertook. Going past all expectations to achieve excellence in every task. Quiet and unassuming, he made a wonderful contribution in the lives of everyone.

(Excellent )

07/06/2018

Left by Workawayer (Anna) for host

This place is beautiful. It's on the hill, surrounded by nature, the sunset from there is amazing. There are different type of accommodation. I stayed 2 weeks in a really nice wooden cabin with a hammock in front of it. You can be assigned to different type of work. I did mainly gardening, ironing and house keeping, but all depends what is… read more

(Excellent )

23/05/2018

Left by Workawayer (Michael) for host

The place is beautiful. I loved to meditate in the temple or do Yoga there. Fortunately we had a Yoga teacher staying there so we could practice more often. Also you can do a lot of hiking or just enjoying the nature.

The work was very physical what I liked. But there are plenty of jobs so the experiences will always be different. What I didn´t… read more

(Very good )

09/05/2018

Left by Workawayer (David) for host

Awesome place, the location is beautiful, so you can relax after work either at the temple or on the beach. There's one meal on working days, which is a lot, but otherwise you have to eat what you bring. For which you have to plan ahead, because there are no shops nearby. Not much mobile signal, the WiFi is slow and the bathroom and the kitchen… read more

(Excellent )

05/05/2018

Left by Workawayer (Emilia & Juho) for host

Absolutely beautiful location, in the middle of native bush and close to stunning Karekare beach. Work is fair and the hours are good. Thank you Savitri!

(Excellent )

18/04/2018

Left by Workawayer (Ricardo) for host

The place is amazing, beautiful views, trails around the bush, waterfalls, black sand beaches surrounding by a very green and quiet nature. We could have yoga and meditation sessions in the temple which is absolutely beautiful. About the work for me it was alright but some people might find it a bit hard doing things such as: gardening, mowing and… read more

(Excellent )

10/04/2018

Left by Workawayer (Beth) for host

This place is a real piece of peaceful paradise. Yes, the work can be intense and physically demanding but it is so worth being able to be a part of the community and to stay in this gorgeous retreat. I was able to guide some yoga and meditations in the temple whilst here which was really useful for me as relatively new teacher. One meal provided… read more

(Excellent )

10/04/2018

Left by host for Workawayer (Beth)

Beth was one of the best volunteers we have experienced. Her calm , helpful, conscientious, and confident ways made it an honor to host her. She also ran a number of yoga classes for everyone in the temple, into which she put much preparation. These were much appreciated, especially the yin yoga. Always happy to serve with her skills, she is an… read more

(Excellent )

10/04/2018

Left by host for Workawayer (Lawrence)

Lawrence is an awesome guy and highly recommend him. He is super fit, intelligent, a great contributor and professional in everything he does. We were thrilled to have him stay for over a month and attend both our festivals. He is an asset wherever he goes, a happy individual who is a delight to have around.

(Excellent )

24/03/2018

Left by host for Workawayer (Frank & Alla)

A BIG thank-you for the wonderful contribution you made, not only in your work (the caravan looks stunning and Eileen is the best house keeper I have ever met) but your personal contribution to the lives of everyone who was here during your visit.Your singing bowl concerts were divine, and personal healing sessions with this beautiful medium was a… read more

(Excellent )

13/03/2018

Left by Workawayer (MONIKA) for host

I have been in the community for 9 days and after I volunteer on yoga festival organized as well by Jenny.
This place is amaZing,hidden in the bush., quiet,surrounded by beautiful nature and magical waterfalls. it was an incredible experience.
You work 4 times a week for 5 hours, you get a morning tea with delicious breakfast. Another meals you… read more

(Excellent )

01/02/2018

Left by host for Workawayer (Anna Maria)

Anna Marie quickly became family and will always be in our hearts as we journey forward in life. Her depth of quest and unique personality immediately endeared us to her. She is a professional in her work, reliable and strives for excellence. We highly recommend her for any situation and wish her a deep and fulfilling inner and outer journey

(Excellent )

01/02/2018

Left by Workawayer (Anna Maria) for host

I stayed six weeks here and it has been one of this experiences I will always keep deep in my heart! I fell deeply in love with the place, the people and all its surroundings! I highly recommend here to everybody who is spiritual and wants to be surrounded by a magical and peaceful nature. I wish to come back one day! All the best for you, Jenny &… read more

(Excellent )

27/01/2018

Left by Workawayer (Nikolai) for host

This is the place to make a pause in your life, enjoy the nature and ask yourself some important questions, if you are into it. The setting is almost perfect – a secluded retreat in the mountains (30 mins drive to the nearest shop), ocean, cliffs, waterfalls, jungle, black sand beach, quiet temple, yoga classes and limited Internet access. Some… read more

(Excellent )

24/01/2018

Left by Workawayer (Els & Wick) for host

The landscape here is the most beautiful we've seen in the northern part of New Zealand. Karekare and Piha Beaches are great places to spend an afternoon or a day off. The beach is difficult to reach if it has rained and the way is hilly and the rocks are slippery. If you are not a good climber or 50plus it can be a real challenge. Unfortunately I… read more

(Good )

22/01/2018

Left by host for Workawayer (Angela)

Highly recommend Angela, who was an awesome addition to our community, and a hard honest working volunteer.

(Excellent )

07/01/2018

Left by Workawayer (Wing Sze) for host

An extraordinary retreat

This is my 9th workaway trip. Quite different from my previous eight trips in terms of food and Wifi supplies, job tasks as well as interactions with other
Workawayer

- last minute notice of no food supply
- No Wi-Fi at the place I stayed for the first 2 weeks
- Overall 85% of my job task was housekeeping at 2 … read more

(Excellent )

07/12/2017

Left by Workawayer (cynthia) for host

For the volunteers, the residents, the landscape, the establishment, ... For all the love and beautiful energy we have been sharing for two weeks:
5 :asterisk_symbol: !!!
For the work organisation, the volunteers program and schedule, the interaction with the host: 3:asterisk_symbol:. ..
Jenny is a very nice and positive woman, full of energy and… read more

(Very good )

08/11/2017

Left by Workawayer (Willow & Joe) for host

The landscape here is the most beautiful we've seen in the northern part of New Zealand. Karekare and Piha Beaches are stunning and are great places to spend an afternoon or a day off. Jenny is unlike anyone we've ever met. She's incredibly driven, hardworking, and has a lot on her plate. Due to her fast pace we didn't really feel like we got to… read more

(Very good )

15/05/2017

Left by host for Workawayer (Bente)

Bente is a delight to work with, has a wonderful personality, is enthusiastic and has depth. We highly recommend her to any host.

(Very good )

15/05/2017

Left by Workawayer (Bente) for host

This is an amazing place! And Jenny is an amazing woman with a beautiful vision! I had the pleasure of staying with them for 2,5 weeks and i loved every minute of it. The work is good and not too difficult and the beautiful views make you forget that you are working. The area is very good for hiking and you get enough free time to enjoy that.… read more

(Very good )

27/04/2017

Left by host for Workawayer (Sina)

The best ever! We had a lovely time together.

(Excellent )

11/01/2017

Left by Workawayer (Wayne & Pawn) for host

Our host Jenny is an incredible woman with boundless energy and enthusiasm. Her vision of creating sacred spaces are inspiring and made us feel we working on something bigger than ourselves. She really cares about her workawayers as evidenced by providing any foods we requested (vegetarian) and putting us in fantastic accomodations. This was… read more

(Excellent )

09/01/2017

Left by host for Workawayer (Wayne & Pawn)

Wayne and Pawn are two of the most wonderful people I have ever met. Quietly competent, hardworking, natural leaders they came with a rare skill-set, Pawn is highly skilled in cooking and kitchen management and looked after the whole volunteer team with her culinary delights. Wayne is a skilled landscaper. An absolute pleasure to have. Highly… read more

(Excellent )

01/08/2016

Left by Workawayer (Giorgia) for host

I have been at this place just for 3 days, but it was an incredible experience. The place is amazing, sourrounded by nature, and the view from the house is incredible. Leslie, one of the residents in this little community, cooked for us (me and other 4 wwoofers) 3 delicious vegetarian meals every day. The work is just in the morning, so you have… read more

(Excellent )

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Host ref number: 677328683925

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