Since the first waka graced our shores, Aotea Great Barrier Island has been honoured as a place for healing, wellbeing and restoration. Learn the art of slowing down through sensory immersion in nature, inspired by Shinrin-yoku, the Japanese wellbeing practice of forest bathing.
Experiences can be tailored to individual needs.
For shorter weekend stays, it's a good idea to take a flight from Auckland with Barrier Air and hire a car on the island. By Sealink ferry, the crossing from Auckland is a relaxing 4 and a half hours, docking at Tryphena wharf 7 days a week in the summer and 3 days in the winter. The ferry is able to transport passengers', freight and vehicles.
Designed for anyone who wants to learn the practical skills of distillation and extraction. The online Foundation courses are the gateway to working with natural flavour and aroma. The specialised courses will elevate your skills and enhance your practice. In person courses also available
You've seen sword fighting in the movies, think Zorro and pirates - what about giving it a go? Increase your fitness and learn a very fancy new skill. Elegant!
A series of practical workshops for rongoa Maori - Traditional Maori Medicine. Workshops are taught in the bush in a supportive and encouraging environment for both Maori and non-Maori participants. All workshops are run over a weekend and are held in the ngahere (bush). The aim is to teach people how to identify the plants used for rongoa, where to find them, and how to collect them and the tikanga (customs) that must be followed.