Join us for the Mens Wānanga: Tēnei te Pō, Tēnei te Ao – a two-day journey of wellbeing, awakening, and connection on 26–27 April 2025. Experience the beauty of nature and Māori wisdom through a hands-on Bonsai Workshop and activities at the stunning Kura Tāwhiti / Castle Hill.

Day 1 focuses on cultivating patience and connection with native bonsai. Learn about its significance, pot your own bonsai tree, and discover the benefits of native plants through mindful practices and reflection.

Day 2 invites you to connect with nature through guided breathwork and a heart-opening cacao ceremony while exploring the sacred history of this special site.

Spaces are limited for this intimate gathering aimed at genuine connection and healing. Bring your journal and an open heart as we journey together from darkness into light.

ITINERARY:
DAY ONE (26 April 2025)

9:00 AM	Pōwhiri & Whakawhanungatanga (Welcome & Icebreaker) Karakia Timatanga (Te Ao) (Opening prayer) - Mihimihi & introductions (sharing pepeha if comfortable) - Icebreaker activity (e.g., "He aha te mea nui?" – "What is the most important thing?" with short, shared responses)
10:00 AM	Ngahere Haerenga: Crafting Walking Support Sticks (Mens Circle) - Mens circle in the ngahere (bush), Mindful exercise with breathwork and sound - Discussion on the significance of the rakau (stick) as a taonga and tool for reflection/support. - Hands-on session: Selecting, shaping, and sanding sticks (guidance provided). - Optional: Carving initials or symbols with meaning.
12:00 PM	Kai (Lunch) - Shared meal with mindful kōrero (conversation). - Karakia kai (blessing for food).
1:00 PM	Bonsai Making Workshop - Introduction to bonsai as a metaphor for patience, growth, and stewardship. - Practical steps: Potting, pruning, and shaping small native plants (e.g., mānuka or kōwhai saplings). - Participants take their bonsai home as a reminder of the day’s learnings.
3:00 PM	Closing For the day 1 Session: - Group reflection: Sharing insights from the day. - Karakia whakamutunga (closing prayer).

ITINERARY:
DAY TWO (27 April 2025)

7:00 AM	Morning: Arrival & Ceremonial Opening: Depart Christchurch - Meet at a He Waka Tapu (161 Pages Rd) for a brief introduction. - Carpool to Kura Tawhiti (Castle Hill), a sacred limestone rock formation with deep spiritual significance to Māori and a powerful place for initiation.
9:00 AM	Arrival at Kura Tawhiti: - Opening Karakia (Māori prayer/invocation) – Honor the land and ancestors. - Smudging/Cleansing Ceremony – Use native herbs (kawakawa, harakeke) or sage to purify the group. - Circle Introduction – Each man shares his name, why he’s here, and what he seeks from this passage.
10:30 AM	Solo Time & Nature Connection: Silent Walk & Rock Exploration - Walk in silence among the boulders, absorbing the energy of the land. - Find a personal rock formation to sit with, journal, or meditate.
12:00 PM	Shared Meal in Circl - Simple, hearty food (e.g., stew, bread, fruit). - Discuss first impressions of the land and any insights from solo time.
1:30 PM	Afternoon: Initiation & Challenge Physical & Mental Challenge: - Stone Carry Ceremony – Each man selects a stone that represents a burden or challenge he carries. - Group Hike – Walk together to a high point, holding the stones as a symbol of resilience. - Release Ritual* – At the summit, men speak aloud what they are releasing, then leave the stone behind. Storytelling & Wisdom Sharing: - Elders or guides share stories of masculine initiation from different cultures (Māori, Celtic, Indigenous traditions). - Discussion: "What does it mean to be a man in today’s world?" Fire Ceremony & Integration: - Set up a communal fire (if permitted) or use a portable fire bowl. Fire Ritual & Intention Setting: - Each man speaks his commitment for this rites-of-passage journey. - Offerings are made to the fire (written fears, old identities, or prayers). - Chanting, drumming, or simple songs to close the ceremony. Shared Meal & Brotherhood Bonding. - Eat together, share stories, and reflect on the day. - Optional: Night watch/ solo sit under the stars for those who feel called.