
MEDITATION RETREAT WITH YOGA PONSONBY, AUCKLAND
Tranquility and Insight
Meditation Retreat with Susan Allen (non-residential)
Dates: 23 – 27 July 2025 (see below for times)
Join us for this urban meditation and yoga retreat in Ponsonby, central Auckland. Meditation is a journey of discovery; this practice cultivates understanding of how your mind works and offers the possibility of flourishing in this world.
This is a non-residential retreat where participants have the flexibility to find their own accommodation, coming together each day for learning and practice.
– Retreat overview –
4.5 days of inspiring practice, setting a new direction for yourself
At this retreat you will:
– Learn a structured meditation practice that you will be confident and inspired to continue on your own at home.
– Understand what meditation is and how it can be used in your life to decrease stress, to cultivate ease of mind, and as a tool for flourishing in your life.
– Gain an understanding of the common obstacles to meditation and how to overcome them.
– Ask questions and receive personalised advice on how to progress in your practice.
– Have five days immersion in meditation and yoga, recharge and get clear on a path moving forward.
– Learn from one of NZ’s most experienced and competent meditation teachers Susan Allen.
– Dates and Pricing –
23-27 July, 2025
Day 1: Weds. 23rd July, 5.30 – 8.30pm
Day 2-5: Thurs. 24th, Fri. 25th, Sat. 26th, Sun. 27th July, 9am – 6pm
Tuition per person for the 5 day program –
Early Bird price, available until 15th June 2025 – $950
Full price, if registered after 15th June 2025 – $1,080
Payment is required to register a spot. A payment plan is available on request.
– The practice –
This meditation retreat offers 5 days of meditation practice and discussion in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition. This is an opportunity for you to begin a daily meditation practice for life or to advance an existing practice with fresh ideas and strategies. These meditation retreats are usually mixed level from beginners to more advanced practitioners, all are welcome.
The retreat is hosted by one of NZ’s most experienced meditation and yoga teachers, Susan Allen. Suze has been teaching meditation for 22 years and has an authentic passion for sharing this transformative practice with others.
Meditation will change your life, it is a tool for developing calmness of mind, a poise of character. Through the practice we gain insight into how our mind works; we find a path that facilitates the flourishing of all mental traits

– What will we be practicing? –
The meditation practices and discussion will have a particular emphasis on cultivating quietness and steadiness in the mind as well as cultivating insights that bring freedom and peace of mind into our everyday life. Tibetan Buddhist meditations value an intelligent and structured approach to investigating ‘What is the mind?’ and consequently frame meditation in a practical and methodical way. You can read more detail about the meditation approach here. The meditation practices will be taken from the Mahamudra and Dzogchen Tibetan Buddhist tradition. These will be presented in a secular, practical fashion.


- What an absolutely amazing experience! From start to finish my heart and mind we’re open to receive all the knowledge and learnings that Suze so eloquently shared. I’m so grateful that I got to be apart of such a transformational retreat and connect with not only myself but the other awesome humans who showed up for themselves. The meditations themselves were so valuable and insightful and invoked such powerful questions and deeper thinking. Learning about the Tibetan Buddhist ways through the dharma has opened up my mind and my heart! I have been less reactive since integrating after the retreat and am feeding my thirst of Buddhism knowledge (as well as sitting!) and I feel so very lucky to have had the opportunity. Thank you Suze, you truly are a wonderful human who lives and breaths passion!read moreread lessKimberley S.4/03/2025Amazing 5 days spent on our retreat at Hawea. Suze made the entire experience both interesting and pleasurable. It was a privilege to attend.read moreread lessGary M.12/07/2024I attended Susan's 5 day meditation retreat at Lake Hawea Camp last week and it's been an absolutely incredible experience. I am so grateful to have been a part of it all.
Susan's passion for meditation and holistic approach to all aspects of life really shows in her teaching. I didn't expect to get so much knowledge in just 5 days, all presented in a very understandable way and full of practical examples. Learning from her has been an invaluable and eye(mind)-opening experience.
If you ever have an opportunity to attend one of Susan's retreats please go for it, I can highly recommend it!read moreread lessLenka S.12/07/2024 - Suse is an incredible teacher with the ability to communicate meditation teachings in a clear and accessible manner. The yoga in the morning and the stunning location at Lake Hāwea was also a boon. Will definitely be back for more.read moreread lessLouise B.12/07/2024I can’t recommend joining Suze on retreat enough. Her teaching is phenomenal. Clear, simple and really focused on achieving the practical impacts on life that meditation can deliver. Her approach is both full of humour and demanding. Her secular and fundamentally New Zealand approach means this would be my first recommendation to any friends who are just dipping their toes into meditation but would be at risk of being put off by an overtly mystical approach. Thanks so much Suze - I’ll be back and will be bringing friends and family!read moreread lessBelinda B.12/07/2024The beautiful retreat on Sunday was everything I needed. I felt guided through the yoga and meditation sessions in a safe and enriching way. The food was so healthy and delicious and every moment was an experience I’d love to repeat. Thank you Susan for filling up my soul and reminding me to breathe 🙏🙏read moreread lessJonny a.11/07/2024
- I spent the 13 October at a Retreat run by Suze Allen. It was held at the most beautiful home called Lake Hāwea View. There were 15 lucky ladies that enjoyed yoga, meditation, rest, sauna, spa and fabulous food and drinks served by Evelyn.
It was a pleasure to spend the day with super, friendly ladies and something I would recommend as a special treat to yourself.read moreread lessHeather M.11/07/2024Suze's 5 day retreat was amazing. This was my second time around and I found the concentration and insight practices to be really beneficial. Suze creates an inclusive environment which is enjoyable to be a part of. Whether you are a beginner or a more seasoned meditator, this is an incredible retreat to enhance and develop your meditation practice.read moreread lessJames K.8/05/2024I did a 4 day meditation retreat with Suze in Auckland. It exceeded all my expectations. Suze is a wonderful teacher and generous with her knowledge. I Can't recommend highly enough to anyone who is interested in meditation, regardless of your level of experience.read moreread lessCaroline F.8/05/2024 - I did a 6 day meditation retreat with Susan and found it incredibly beneficial. I already had my own meditation practice but wanted to deepen it. Susan had all the knowledge and skills to help me with that. Susan has a very calm, carefully paced, intelligent, and well structured approach to teaching. I am really hoping to establish an ongoing teacher-student relationship with her in the future. Arohanui, Karen.read moreread lessKaren N.7/05/2024Nestled amidst the serene mountains, Susan Allen Meditation Retreat held at Mana Retreat Centre offers a rejuvenating escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. I recently embarked on a six-day retreat here, seeking solace and a deeper connection with myself through meditation and mindfulness practices. Location and Atmosphere: The retreat is situated in a picturesque valley surrounded by lush greenery and towering pine trees. The air is crisp and clean, adding to the overall sense of tranquility. The architecture of the meditation hall and accommodations blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings, fostering a peaceful ambiance that is conducive to introspection and relaxation. Accommodations: I stayed in a cozy yet spacious cabin that was impeccably clean and thoughtfully designed. The minimalist décor and comfortable furnishings provided a perfect sanctuary for contemplation and rest. The sound of rustling leaves and occasional birdsong outside the window added to the calming atmosphere. Meditation Sessions: Led by experienced instructor Susan Allen, the meditation sessions were the highlight of my retreat experience. The schedule was well-planned, with sessions ranging from guided meditations to silent contemplation periods. Each session was designed to deepen our practice and foster mindfulness, helping us cultivate a sense of inner peace and clarity. Food and Dining: The meals at Mana retreat were a delightful surprise. Served buffet-style, the vegetarian cuisine was not only nutritious but also delicious, with an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The dining area offered panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, providing a serene backdrop for mindful eating and reflection. Activities and Facilities: In addition to meditation, the retreat offered optional activities such as yoga sessions, massages, nature walks, and evening discussions on mindfulness. The facilities, including a sauna and outdoor meditation spaces, were well-maintained and enhanced the overall retreat experience. Community and Support: One of the most rewarding aspects of the retreat was the sense of community fostered among participants. Through group discussions and shared experiences, I felt supported and inspired on my journey towards self-discovery and personal growth. Conclusion: Susan Allen’s Meditation Retreat exceeded my expectations in every way. From the breathtaking natural surroundings to the well-crafted meditation sessions and nourishing meals, every detail was thoughtfully curated to create a transformative experience. Whether you're a seasoned meditator or new to mindfulness practices, this retreat offers a welcoming space to reconnect with yourself and find inner peace. I left feeling rejuvenated, inspired, and deeply grateful for the opportunity to retreat into stillness at Mana retreat centre. If you're seeking a retreat that combines relaxation, mindfulness, and natural beauty, I highly recommend Susan Allen Meditation Retreat. It's an investment in your well-being that yields invaluable returns long after you leave its serene embrace. Please check her website www.retreats.nz for more informationread moreread lessPradeep M.7/05/2024I have just come off a 5 day meditation retreat hosted by Susan. I am so grateful to have been a part of it all. Susan is very passionate and it shows in her teaching. She has the ability to create a safe space filled with love and compassion. I have taken home with me a gift of knowledge (a gift that keeps on giving). I am looking forward to putting my learnings into my home meditation practices. If you ever have an opportunity to attend one of Susan's retreats I say go for it! Highly recommend.read moreread lessAdele M.7/05/2024
- Fantastic meditation retreat. Professionally run, warm environment, Susan is highly experienced, appropriate for beginners as well as those more advanced and very good value for money. I will definitely be attending another course!read moreread lessjane p.7/05/2024Another wonderful retreat with Susan, within a relaxed supportive atmosphere. A very special tool for personal growth, healing & positive change.read moreread lessGabrielle C.7/05/2024My heart feels very full after spending the last 5 days with Suze at her meditation retreat. I’m still integrating a lot of what I learned, but the most powerful insight for me has been the purpose behind my practice. Suze helped me understand what I am a part of, and how lucky I am to be a part of it. I have been opened up to a whole, new awareness and I feel so grateful and full of love. Thank you Suze. You, your knowledge and your passion is such a gift.read moreread lessBree N.7/05/2024
The mind is the ground for suffering or for liberation.
The mind absolutely and completely shapes our experience of life. In this retreat we will explore how the mind fabricates our experience. To explain this, imagine this scene –
Someone criticises you for not completing a task the way they would have done it. If you are in a buoyant and happy mood you shrug off their criticism and don’t let it bother you. If you are tired and grumpy then you might really react to their criticism, taking it to heart, and getting caught up in some story about how people don’t like you or value you, or whatever your version of the story is you often fall into. This is an example of how the mind constructs, or we say fabricates, our experience. Our happiness depends on how the mind reacts to our experience. Once we understand that every moment of our life is dependent on how the mind fabricates our experience, the path, the way out of this bondage becomes visible.

– Dates and Pricing –
23-27 July, 2025
Day 1: Weds. 23rd July, 5.30 – 8.30pm
Day 2-5: Thurs. 24th, Fri. 25th, Sat. 26th, Sun. 27th July, 9am – 6pm
Tuition per person for the 5 day program –
Early Bird price, available until 15th June 2025 – $950
Full price, if registered after 15th June 2025 – $1,080
Payment is required to register a spot. A payment plan is available on request.
What is included? This is a non-residential retreat. Participants need to find their own accommodation locally. Price includes all meditation and yoga instruction as well as audio recordings of selected practices to take away. Tea, coffee and refreshments are included. Participants are welcome to bring their own lunch and stay at the centre during the breaks. There are many local cafes, parks and beaches within walking distance to enjoy in the breaks.
- Location -
The Life Centre – 88 Jervois Rd, Ponsonby, Auckland, NZ


This is a non-residential retreat. The first evening is an introduction and then for the four full days participants will arrive for a 9am start each day and finish at 5pm. The days will consist of 4 meditation practice and discussion sessions with several breaks in between. There will be yoga in the morning for those that wish to participate. Light refreshments will be given in the breaks (no meals provided). This style of meditation retreat is to make it more accessible price wise and flexibility wise for those that cannot take a longer period of time away from home.
Another advantage of a non-residential retreat is we are working with the habitual state of mind and the familiar experience of daily life to create insight. It is not necessary to create an artificial, silent environment to do this.
Booking process terms and conditions
1. The full tuition fee is required to make a booking. Early bird pricing available up until 10th June, 2025.
2. Register by clicking the ‘Register Now’ button to pay with a credit card. If you would prefer to pay by bank transfer you can contact us to do so.
3. If you cancel your booking before 10th June, 2025 your payment minus a non-refundable $200 admin deposit will be refunded.
4. If you cancel your booking, for whatever reason, including sickness, after 10th June, 2025 no refund will be given but you are able to transfer it to someone else of your finding, or someone on the waitlist if there is one.
Meditation will change your life forever. Learning this practice is one of life's greatest gifts to yourself
Susan Allen who is leading the retreat is the founder of Yoga Ground, studios in Auckland and Wanaka, New Zealand. She also owns Entering the Stream, a world class online yoga and meditation platform and The Yoga Transition, a yoga teacher mentorship business. Read more about Susan here.

Retreats NZ | susan@theyogatransition.com | +64-21-222-6550
Retreats NZ susan@theyogatransition.com
+64-21-222-6550