First Timers' Meditation Retreat

A Day of Inner Peace and Renewal

A one-day retreat based on the teachings of Paramhansa Yogananda and Swami Kriyananda

A one-day retreat based on the teachings of Paramhansa Yogananda and Swami Kriyananda

Available in Rotorua and Cambridge

Calm heart, quiet mind

A practical introduction to meditation and Kriya Yoga, as taught by Paramhansa Yogananda. Take part in activities that calm your hear and still your mind. Perfect for first timers' and anyone wishing to reinspire their meditation practice.

Paramhansa Yogananda

Paramhansa Yogananda

This retreat focuses on scientific, time-tested techniques to relax the body, focus the

mind, and experience the natural joy of the soul

The path to calmness

What to Expect

Beginner-friendly meditation

A full, stand-alone meditation course you can use for life.

Meditative activities

Take part in meditative activities

Yogic wisdom

Engage in discussions on yogic wisdom for health and happiness

Symbolic ceremony

Refocus your life’s goals through symbolic ceremony

Chanting and music

Participate in soul centred chanting and music

Like-minded company

Enjoy the company of like-minded people

“The soul loves to meditate, for in contact with the spirit lies its greatest joy"

— Paramhansa Yogananda

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Schedule

Sample Retreat Programme

10:00

Welcome and Introduction

10:15

Preparing to Meditate: Working with breath, movement and energy

11:15

Introduction to meditation – Instructions and Guided Meditation

12:30

LUNCH (BYO)

1:30

Power of silence – Guided Seclusion

2:30

Rekindling your intent – A symbolic ritual & closing circle

3:15

Pack up and depart

“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

Meet your teachers

Learn from a supportive team with decades of experience in the path of Kriya Yoga and the teachings of Paramhansa Yogananda.

Shellee Mischewski | Relaxation & Music

Uses chanting and the music of Swami Kriyananda to help you unwind and settle into a quiet inner space.

Kavita Parshotam | Wisdom & Clarity

With 30+ years of experience, she makes the deeper purpose of meditation easy to understand and apply to daily life.

Julian Dean | Technique & Focus

A former Olympian who provides practical tools to manage your energy and stay calm under pressure.

Session & events

Upcoming retreat in Cambridge

Venue: Fencourt Hall, 529 Fencourt Road, Cambridge
Dates & Times:  16 August 2026, 10:00 am – 3.15pm

Upcoming retreat in Rotorua

Venue: Paradise Valley Lodge, Rotorua
Dates & Times:  20 September 2026, 10:00 am – 3.15pm

No prior experience required. Come as you are. All are warmly welcome.

Price $50

Bring a Friend & Save

$80 for two | $100 for three

Experience the joy of meditation with a friend.
Experience the joy of meditation with a friend.

Have a question? Let's chat

Or contact Kavita : 021 213 8215