WHY Retreat

02/01/2026

Looking for the perfect start to the year? We've created a special reset retreat 11-17 January just for you! The intimacy of a small group means personal attention to the things that matter most to you. Whether its planning for the year ahead, kick-starting your yoga practice, deeper connection, or just a great time in nature. Three highly experienced facilitators are available to guide you gently into the New Year. Top off your experience with a massage and we guarantee you won't be disappointed.

08/12/2025

Some days I think I wake up in a painting.

06/12/2025

Another stunning day at the retreat. Full Moon setting outside the window, a pohutukawa tree full of native bees collecting pollen and fabulous Smuggler's Cove for the afternoon.

03/12/2025

Want this view in the morning? Book the Manaia Suite for a retreat with us.

23/11/2025

First retreat of the season. What a lovely group!

Why Retreat: A yoga (re-) treat - See 51 traveler reviews, 43 candid photos, and great deals for Why Retreat at Tripadvisor.

14/11/2025

MEN DO YOGA
Starts Thursday 4 December 830 am.

Join Jean-Marc at WHY Retreat for an introduction to yoga just for men.

I met JM when he attended a 6 day yoga retreat with me a couple of years ago. He returned for a month in 2024, then joined me for a 200 hour Trauma Informed Yoga Teacher Training with the Yoga Therapy Institute in France this year. His story is a testament to the magic of yoga, and I am delighted that he's returning to share this wisdom with the men in my community.

Read more from him -

Hi, I'm Jean-Marc, Jm for most. Recently qualified to teach yoga I’d like to help guys who might feel like I once did: unsure,stressed or /and needing a reset button.
To be honest, I came to yoga pretty late—at 52. I started after a rough patch, including a tough separation and dealing with the fallout of an aggressive break-in that left me with PTSD. I was struggling to sleep, constantly tense, and running on fumes.
I discovered that yoga isn't just about bending; it’s a toolkit for the nervous system. It gave me a practical, no-BS way to:
• Switch off the Stress Response: Learn how to dial down the constant anxiety and get a genuinely good night's sleep.
• Reclaim Your Focus: Clear the mental clutter and bring more attention to your work and your relationships.
• Move Without Pain: Release built-up tension in your shoulders, back, and hips from years of stress and sitting.
• ⁠if you relate come and join me

07/11/2025

Ready for summer! Join a pre Christmas retreat now and receive a complimentary massage when you mention the summer post.

07/11/2025

Yoga-Lates is back!
Tuesday's at 945am at the WHY studio in Whangarei Heads
This one hour class is a synergy of mat pilates and gentle yoga with a focus on toning core muscles and maintaining mobility.
Beginners welcome!
Still just $10 per class for concession cards or $15 casual rate.

02/11/2025

Celebrating these amazing new yoga teachers today . I have had the honor of spending these past three weeks full of laughter and learning. So grateful for this opportunity 😀🙏

30/05/2025

This is my new sweet little cabin and is available for visiting yoga teachers who come to help at WHY retreat. Come for a few weeks or a few months. The skills and perspectives that you bring enrich the experience of my students and guests. The exchange of experience enriches us both. I'm currently taking applications for July - September. Also seeking a longer term partner for 2026.