Learn more about the retreats and team
Where learning becomes understanding.
An experiential learning space where clinicians kōrero openly, explore real-world challenges, and gain a meaningful understanding of a Māori worldview, ready to integrate into everyday practice.
What's Included
All-Inclusive Cultural Education Retreat
A fully catered all inclusive educational experience where every detail is taken care of, creating a safe space to learn, reflect and connect without distraction.
This event is approved for 17 ACEM CPD hours.
Experiential Professional Development & Cultural Learning
A thoughtfully designed programme across 2 nights and 3 days with 14 CPD hours, that blends engaging guided learning and group discussion with opportunities to apply insights to your real-world application.
Wellbeing Space
-
Private one-to-one mirimiri (massage) for each guest
-
Space in the agenda to rest
-
Welcome gifts and thoughtful touches
-
Nourishing, delicious meals and refreshments
Connection & Community
A welcoming environment where clinicians can ask questions safely, share experiences, and learn from one another. Space to unwind, reflect, and connect.
Beautiful Coastal Setting
Set on the clifftops of Karioitahi Beach, our venue offers a rare balance of comfort, seclusion, and connection to the natural world. Just 50 minutes from Auckland’s CBD and airports, you are a world away, nestled between rolling hills and the expansive Tasman Sea. Warm, comfortable glamping accommodation provides ease and shelter, while the rugged coastal landscape invites rest, reflection, and reconnection.
Our Story
Cultural Wellbeing began in 2023 on a surf break in the Far North.
Two friends, Mick and Paora found themselves in a quiet, honest conversation between sets. Mick, an Irish-born emergency medicine consultant at Whangārei Hospital, shared the uncertainty he often felt navigating cultural dynamics with patients. Paora recognised the courage in naming something many clinicians experience but rarely voice. Sensing the importance of that moment, Stacey felt a clear call to help build a bridge. What began as a reflective chat between friends grew into something worth pursuing.
Today, Cultural Wellbeing Retreats are led and curated by Stacey, with Mereana Pou as the cultural educator.
Every element, from the learning journey to the wellbeing touches is intentionally designed to create a safe, experiential space where clinicians can deepen their understanding of te ao Māori and grow in confidence to deliver care that honours Māori patients and whānau.
Meet the Team
_edited_edited_edited_jp.jpg)
Clinical Ambassadors
Our Clinical Ambassadors are clinicians who generously volunteer their time to support the kaupapa. Their involvement helps ensure each retreat is a safe, supportive space, remaining practical, relevant and connected to the real-world realities of clinical practice.
Retreat Support
Roy Davidson
Roy has played an integral role in the Cultural Wellbeing initiative from its inception, bringing an informed, practical perspective from his understanding of how to engage clinicians and drive meaningful change in healthcare settings.
With over 13 years dedicated to transforming healthcare systems, Roy is committed to improving patient outcomes, and sustainability across the sector.
Who Attends
We welcome individuals working within healthcare in Aotearoa New Zealand and abroad, no matter where you are on your journey with te ao māori understanding.
-
Senior Medical Officers of all Specialties
-
GPs
-
Nurses
-
Registrars
-
Allied Health Professionals
-
Support Staff
-
Partners of Guests
The Venue
The Venue
Cliffside
Grounded in Nature. Held with Care.
Perched on the clifftops of Karioitahi Beach, our venue offers space to slow down, breathe, and reconnect.
Just 50 minutes from Auckland yet feeling a world away, the rugged coastal landscape - black sand beach, rolling hills, and expansive Tasman Sea, creates a powerful setting for reflection, learning, and meaningful kōrero.
Warm, comfortable glamping accommodation provides ease and shelter in all conditions, allowing you to fully settle in and be present. T
his is a place where wānanga feels natural, connections deepen, and the whenua itself supports the kaupapa, holding a calm, safe space for learning that can be carried back into everyday clinical practice.
Retreat Programme
Subject to change
Day 1 - Friday
3:00–3:30
Guest arrival at carpark
3:30–4:00
4WD transport to retreat space
4:00 - 4:30
Settle in / welcome beverage & nibbles
4:30 - 6:00
Wānanga - Te ao Māori experiential education and clinical application
6:00 - 7:00
Dinner
7:00 - 7:30
Welcome, introductions, housekeeping
7:30 - 10:00
Whanaungatanga & fire-side waiata (self-directed)
Day 2 - Saturday
7:00 – 8:00
Breakfast
8:00 – 8:30
Free time / movement
8:30 - 9:00
Karakia / Himene / Mihi Whakatau / Whakawhānaungatanga
9:00 – 10:30
Wānanga - Te ao Māori experiential education and clinical application
10:30 - 11.00
Morning Tea
11:00 - 1:00
Wānanga - Te ao Māori experiential education and clinical application
1:00 - 2:00
Lunch
2:00 - 3:30
Wānanga - Te ao Māori experiential education and clinical application
3:30 - 4:00
Afternoon Tea
4:00 - 5:30
Wānanga - Te ao Māori experiential education and clinical application
5:30 - 6:00
Free Time
6:00 - 7:00
Dinner
7:00 - 8:30
Treaty Workshop
8:30 - 9:30
Fire-side waiata (optional)
Day 3 - Sunday
7:30 - 8:30
Breakfast & Free Time
8:30 - 9:00
Karakia / Himene / Mihi Whakatau / Whakawhānaungatanga
9:00 - 10:30
Wellbeing Workshop
10:30 - 11:00
Morning Tea
11:00 - 1:00
Wānanga - Te ao Māori experiential education and clinical application
1:00 - 1:30
Closing Circle
1:30 - 2:15
Lunch
2:15 - 2:30
Pack Up and Farewells
2:30 - 3:00
4WD transport from retreat space
Why This Matters
In Aotearoa, Māori continue to experience significantly higher unmet need for primary healthcare.
Behind every statistic is a whānau navigating a system that doesn’t always feel designed with them in mind.
Cultural safety isn’t an optional extra. Its is foundational to equitable care.