WHY Retreat — Local services in North Island

A nice location with very pleasant local views but in my opinion not worth the money. Extremely pricey in that respect. My room (the most expensive) had lovely views but was a little dirty on arrival (all the drawers needed vacuuming), and was not cleaned or serviced in any way during the entire 6 days. The bed was terribly uncomfortable and I did not sleep very well the entire time. Was also told (via a sign on the wall) to not leave the heated towel rail on, and asked to wipe down the shower after use. Not impressed at all, based on the cost. The yoga was great and there was an abundance of it! The food was a little underwhelming. You helped yourself to a continental breakfast but things ran out (eg coffee, yoghurt) and we had to ask for more. This should not have happened. The lunch and dinner meals were very well presented, but at times there wasn’t enough offered, and there was not enough protein at most meals which left me feeling constantly hungry. And the host ate with us which I didn’t really like. I did really appreciate the birthday cake though. Thank you. This retreat was advertised as a hiking and yoga retreat. However I would describe this more accurately as local walks, not hikes. I was quite disappointed in that respect.

Footnote, reply to Jo’s comments below. Please take on board that most people don’t like to complain or make a fuss as this can spoil the rest of the experience if the host takes offence. And asking guests in front of other guests for feedback is also not going to give you accurate feedback. I read in the compendium that the rooms would be partially serviced during the retreat. I.e. bathroom cleaned. But no bedding changed. My bathroom was never cleaned and no fresh towels were provided. There is absolutely no complaints about the vegetarian concept just that sufficient protein should be available. This was definitely lacking. Offering 2 slices of squeaky cheese with lunch as the protein source was completely insufficient.

It would be more humbling to accept people’s constructive criticism and use this input to build a better business than try and defend yourself. I expected this would...

If you want a fabulous, intimate yoga retreat in New Zealand, go to WHY. The location on Whangerei Heads is superb: beaches of different types - sandy, stony, full of shells, rock pools, surfing - are all there. The scenery is stunning, too: turquoise sea, ancient forests and great hiking paths with 360 degree views of bays and forests. We met hardly anyone on the hikes and beaches were often almost empty.

The yoga and meditation classes taught by Jo and her fellow teacher for our week, Astrid Björk, were extremely varied. Jo and Astrid really felt what the group needed as the retreat progressed and are both really knowledgeable about yoga, personal training, breathing techniques, Pilates and nutrition. It’s great that they are continually available for questions.

The rooms were spotless and veggie meals were varied and delicious. I especially loved the avocado and chocolate mousse. Food is provided for you to make your own breakfast in your own time. Lunch and dinner are eaten with the staff, which makes for in-depth - or fun - chats.

And the centre has a grounded, safe feel from the moment you arrive. Our international group really ‘gelled’ as the week went on. Highly...

I felt uncomfortable for a large amount of this retreat. Host runs the entire retreat and has accommodation based at her home and she delivers the yoga, massage, hikes, and cooking herself. Host not good at addressing issues as they arise and if you don’t agree with her approach you really are in a difficult spot. The cost was around 400 a day which was very high for the experience. Some yoga classes are attended by community members and I ended up on a hike alone due to sickness with no contact info or H&S briefing. No other paid staff but a helper yoga teacher (traveller) was the only reason I was able to take something positive away and I’m very grateful she was there tbh. Restrictive approach to food/understanding of healthy eating and would not be suitable for anyone struggling with an eating disorder. In fact it could be very damaging. The natural environment is beautiful and it was nice to be surrounded by...