The Experience

Reconnection to self, ancestry, nature and community in the nature-rich, historically significant area of Hokianga, New Zealand,
3.5 hours drive north of Auckland.

Experience power spots in nature, ancestral holistic practices, and community volunteering, grounded in indigenous wisdom and ethical principles. Our workshops improve wellbeing and contribute to the solving of the world’s social and environmental problems by aiming at the root cause – the sense of disconnection many of us feel, from ourselves, from nature and from each other.

For those who wish to truly connect and contribute to the places they visit, we aim for the deepening of cross-cultural connections between locals and travelers. We give back to community in the form of a percent of profits, volunteer contributions from participants, and opportunities to engage with diverse cultures.

WHAT IS INCLUDED?

  • Guided nature walk
  • Explanation of basic local history & Maori culture relevant to the area and communities we visit, and how we respectfully connect with these
  • Ancestral ritual/practice to acknowledge ancestors, Nature, people of this land, and to make connections between
  • Explanation of the practice and importance of such acknowledgements shared across cultures, to make connections to participants’ own ancestry & homelands and highlight its relevance for their personal journeys
  • Talking circle to acknowledge and share our thoughts of the experience
  • Free time for photos at scenic viewpoints, etc.
  • Community gardens experience: discovering how local, community-led systems build resilience and healthy food access, finding healing through gardening together, and sharing meals that deepen connection and cultural understanding.

WHO ARE THESE WORKSHOPS FOR?

Ideal for socially conscious, open-minded adults of all ages (and teenagers 16+) wanting to deepen their self-awareness and their relationship with the natural world and different cultures. If you want to truly learn, engage, and contribute to the communities you encounter, then this is for you.

  • Conscious travelers seeking meaningful, nature-based experiences
  • Curious, open-minded people interested in personal growth, healing and emotional wellbeing
  • Anyone wanting to de-colonise and re-shape the way they think about their relationship with Nature, self and others
  • Social workers, conservationists, community leaders, activists or other purpose-driven professionals looking for a reset and/or for tools they can use in their respective fields
  • People working in international or multicultural fields looking to deepen their cross-cultural communication skills

We also acknowledge that these workshops may not be for everyone. If you are just looking for a holiday or sightseeing, feel reluctant about challenging your own perspectives, or lack motivation to ethically engage with local people, then we suggest taking a pass and sticking to mainstream tourist experiences.

Testimony:

“Experiencing nature directly with my senses while thinking about my connection to it on an abstract level was a truly special, mystical experience. I never imagined that experiencing an unfamiliar land could be so impactful and memorable. I’ve traveled to many places and experienced many different tours, art, etc., but this was the first time I’ve experienced a method that so profoundly amplifies the emotional resonance with things encountered in a single, fleeting moment.”

WHAT YOU WILL GAIN

  • Deep knowledge and understanding of ancient ways humans across cultures used to connect to the world around them, and what this means for you
  • Greater connection to self, nature, others, and the place you travel, and an overall sense of wellbeing
  • Experience of communication with non-human beings (e.g. plants, land, ancestors) 
  • Practical tools and skills that can be applied in everyday life even after you leave the workshop.
  • Enhanced emotional intelligence, empathy, and cross-cultural communication skills
  • A sense of belonging to the world transcending culture and life form
  • Insight on what is needed to solve the world’s environmental and social problems, and how to help by starting with you
  • Authentic cross-cultural exchange with locals and a chance to leave the community you visit better off than before you came
  • A unique, life-changing experience not available anywhere else

Bookings coming soon!

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