Kawai Purapura Retreat Centre, located in Albany North Shore, Auckland, is a haven for those seeking self-realisation and inner peace. The name “Kawai Purapura” comes from the Maori language, representing the eternal oneness that resides within all beings. This concept of non-dual awareness, commonly found in various spiritual traditions, emphasises the unity and harmony of all existence.
Covering a vast area, Kawai Purapura serves as a sacred space where people come together to cultivate a deep connexion with the land, nature, and the community. The property was acquired in 2009 by the Prema Trust, with the aim of healing the land's history and realising their long-held vision of establishing a residential care programme for natural medicine. Today, it has evolved into a thriving residential village housing over 90 individuals, offering a flourishing yoga centre, workshops, and a retreat centre.
The land itself is considered a treasure and gift to New Zealand, preserving the lush forest, serene streams, and diverse flora and fauna for future generations. Rooted in Mori culture, Kawai Purapura was blessed during a whakawtea ceremony, signifying a commitment to honour the land's heritage and ensure its preservation.
At Kawai Purapura, visitors are presented with a unique opportunity to embrace their true nature through conscious living. The principle of kotahitanga, the oneness of all people and nature, serves as the foundation of the retreat centre's purpose and vision. It aligns with the spiritual teachings of embracing non-duality, which has been revered by many ancient traditions for centuries.
Additionally, Kawai Purapura acknowledges its connexion to the local indigenous community, Ngti Whtua, who are the Tangata Whenua, or people of the land, in this region. An ongoing partnership has been established with Ngti Whtua through a memorandum of understanding, highlighting the significance of the land and their shared responsibility in caring for it.
Owned by the Prema Charitable Trust, founded in 1990, Kawai Purapura aligns with the trust's broader vision of fostering deep understanding and self-realisation. The trust also operates The Wellpark College of Natural Therapies, furthering its commitment to holistic education and natural medicine. By promoting harmony with nature, psychological well-being, and spirituality, the Prema Trust aims to create a better world for all beings, fostering loving relationships with every living thing.
Kawai Purapura Retreat Centre invites all individuals seeking solace, self-discovery, and spiritual growth to step into its sacred space and embark on a transformative journey toward self-realisation and inner peace.