Gesar Dorje Tsegyal Retreat

Friday October 31st – Friday November 7th, 2025.

Retreat start and finish time

The retreat will have an auspicious beginning on Guru Rinpoche Day at 3pm on Friday 31st October 2025, with the full Gesar Dorje Tsegyal Instant Fortune practice including tsok at the whare (teaching and practice space) with dinner from 6 pm. It is advised to arrive by 2 pm to give yourself time to have a look around and get settled in.

The retreat will finish at around 11 am on Friday 7th November followed by group tidy up of rooms and venue before leaving.

Venue

Located in the foothills of the Southern Alps overlooking the Wangapeka River, about an hour and a half drive SW of Nelson, in the South Island of New Zealand. Please see the Wangapeka Study and Retreat Centre website for all information about the location, venue and how to get there. There is limited cell phone coverage and it is advised to print or download directions to get there before leaving.

Accommodation

There are a mixture of camping sites, and single rooms available.

Karma yoga

Each participant will be given a small daily job to be responsible for in helping out with the running of the retreat. Also, a dishes roster will be in place.

Transport

There will be a WhatsApp group set up for participants to discuss carpooling and other logistical matters.

What to bring

text (final version will be distributed prior to the retreat).
your personal ritual items such as vajra, bell, Gesar whip, tingshas (if you have them). Seat tables for participants will be provided.
toiletries, a torch, walking shoes, sunscreen, hat & wet weather gear, water bottle
hay fever remedies and other personal medications, if required
meditation shawl or small blanket (recommended)
extra cushions for how you feel comfortable sitting if you require them (there are cushions and chairs available).
two sheets or a sleeping bag and one sheet. One blanket and a light duvet plus two pillows and two pillowcases are provided – if you have special requirements, please bring your own.
towel/s

The weather can be unpredictable in November. It could be very hot or cool, and possibly wet so best to check the forecast and prepare accordingly.

Retreat Cost

There are various options including if you would like to stay only 7 days or come the night earlier and stay for 8 days. Participants who are Wangapeka members will have their stay discounted to the membership rate. Please ensure you are eligible for that before selecting that option.

This cost includes food, accommodation, cooks fee and teachers airfares and travel costs. This fee does not cover contributions towards Tsok offerings.

Tsok

If you would like to contribute Gin or other alcohol to Tsok you are welcome to bring along. There is an option to donate to the daily Tsok offerings via the registration donate option.

Refunds

Please note that there will be no refund if you make a cancellation within 30 days prior to the retreat starting. There is no refund on donations or ticket fees.