First Timers’ Meditation Retreat
A one-day retreat based on the teachings of Paramhansa Yogananda and Swami Kriyananda
A Day of Inner Peace and Renewal
Guided meditations, meditative activities and inspirational talks in beautiful settings
Experience the transformative power of stillness. This one-day retreat is a practical introduction to the path of meditation and Kriya Yoga, as taught by Paramhansa Yogananda.
Whether you are looking to manage stress, find mental clarity, or explore the deeper meaning of your life, this retreat provides a supportive environment to begin your journey.
The Path to Calmness
In the busy flow of modern life, we often forget how to find the “still point” within. This retreat focuses on scientific, time-tested techniques that help you relax the body, focus the mind, and experience the natural joy of the soul.
There will be plenty of seating options including chairs, floor cushions and meditation benches. Bring blankets or shawls to keep you comfy.
What to Expect
• Participate in a simple and effective meditation practice
• Take part in meditative activities
• Engage in discussions on yogic wisdom for health and happiness
• Refocus your life’s goals through symbolic ceremony
• Enjoy the company of like-minded people
• Immerse yourself in the beautiful ambiance of the New Zealand countryside
“I went in with no idea what I was walking into…”
“I thought I would be meditating with waterfall imagery and surrounded by lots of Lycra and Lululemon! Instead, I left feeling something shift on a much deeper, more complete soul level. It spoke to me… no scare tactics, no heavy rules—just gentle guidelines that made sense.” — Hayley, Pongakawa
Sample Retreat Program
10:00 – 10:15 Welcome and Introduction
10:15 – 11:15 Preparing to Meditate: Working with breath, movement and energy
11:15 – 12:30 Introduction to meditation – Instructions and Guided Meditation
12:30 – 1:30 LUNCH (BYO)
1:30 – 2:30 Power of silence – Guided Seclusion
2.30 – 3.15 Rekindling your intent – A symbolic ritual & inspirational talk Keeping the Flame Alive: How to bring the benefits of a meditation retreat into your daily life
Schedule
| Date (2026) | Location | Venue | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sun 1 Feb | Rotorua | Paradise Valley Lodge | Book Now |
| Sat 28 Feb | Rotorua | Paradise Valley Lodge | Book Now |
| Sun 3 May | Rotorua | Paradise Valley Lodge | Book Now |
Registration
Invest in Your Spiritual Wellbeing
Patron Price
$150
(Same offerings as Regular Price plus an opportunity to support Ananda NZ)
Regular Price
$120
Bring a Friend & Save
$200 for two | $300 for three
Experience the joy of meditation with a friend. We offer reduced community rates for those attending as a group.
FAQs
I’m not used to sitting on the floor. Are chairs available?
Yes. We believe that a straight spine is more important than a crossed-legged posture. Comfortable chairs are provided, and we encourage you to sit however you are most relaxed and alert.
What should I wear and bring?
Please wear comfortable clothing. You will need to bring your own lunch. Tea and light refreshments will be provided. If you like to take notes, bring a notebook and pen.
What is your refund policy
If you cancel 7 days prior to the retreat date, we can refund your entire payment less $45 administration fee. If you cancel within 7 days of the retreat, there are no refunds.
Meet the Team
Julian, Kavita and Shellee
United by a shared dedication to the path of Self-Realisation, your facilitators—Julian, Shellee, and Kavita—are all longtime disciples of Paramhansa Yogananda.
With nearly 50 years of combined experience in the practice of Kriya Yoga and meditation, they bring a joyful, and authentic presence to every retreat.
They work as a harmonious team, each bringing a unique gift to the experience:
Shellee provides the heartbeat of the retreat. As a gifted musician, she infuses the day with the deeply healing chants and uplifting music of Swami Kriyananda. Her sessions help you move beyond the intellect to awaken the heart’s natural stillness, preparing the inner being for deep meditation.
Julian anchors the energy. A former elite athlete, Julian understands the vital connection between physical discipline and willpower. He offers practical guidance on how to harness your energy and direct it inward, teaching you how to use your own willpower to achieve deep, calm awareness.
Kavita illuminates the teachings. A passionate educator known for her warmth and clarity, Kavita has a special gift for translating the profound wisdom of Paramhansa Yogananda into accessible, practical tools for modern life.
With her guidance, the “how-to” of meditation becomes clear and achievable. She focuses on helping beginners move past the common obstacles of a restless mind, providing a supportive space where you can experience the stillness within for yourself. Whether you are learning your first technique or seeking a deeper practice, Kavita’s heart-centered approach makes the spiritual path feel like coming home.
Over the years, Julian, Kavita and Shellee have shared these teachings with many seekers, supporting communities locally and across New Zealand to discover the joy within their own being.
They are passionate about demystifying the spiritual path and helping you discover that the power to find inner peace and clarity lies within your own practice. By sharing the scientific techniques of meditation, they empower you to tap into your own internal reservoir of calmness and strength.
About Paramhansa Yogananda
Paramhansa Yogananda, author of the spiritual classic Autobiography of a Yogi, was a pioneer of yoga in the West. His teachings emphasize the direct, personal experience of God through meditation and the application of spiritual principles to all aspects of life.
“The soul loves to meditate, for in contact with the spirit lies its greatest joy.” — Paramhansa Yogananda
Have a question before you book? Contact us here