by Jocelyn Watkin | Dec 8, 2024 | Information |
1-Day Retreat: Healing Qigong and the Zen of Kintsugi (Golden Harmony)
When: Saturday 3 May 2025, 9am – 3.30pm. Please arrive between 8.45 – 9am
Where: Auckland Botanic Gardens (in the Friends Building), 102 Hill Road, The Gardens, Auckland 2105
This 1-day retreat is truly unique as this amazing combination of ancient Chinese and Japanese practices has never been offered before by Kia Ora Tai Chi. Join us for a day of self-care, where the team will guide you on how to nurture your health, let go of stress, and embrace the golden magic of imperfection.
Participants: Adults aged 18+. Beginners will be very welcome.
Embrace the Healing Power of Qigong from Ancient China
Awaken the energy flow within you with qigong
Discover the art of healing qigong (pronounced ‘chee gong’) with deep meditative breathing and mindful movements.
Experience a golden glow within as you awaken the energy flow (qi) throughout your body, calm your mind, and enhance your overall wellbeing.
Find Flow through the Japanese Zen concept of Wabi Sabi
Unlock the secret to inner peace with wabi sabi. This centuries-old Japanese philosophy finds beauty in simplicity, imperfection, and the natural flow of life, which will leave you feeling ‘as good as gold’.
How liberating would it feel to stop trying to be perfect all of the time? Absolutely, it would be like winning a ‘get out of jail free’ card in a board game. By embracing imperfection and going with the flow, your movements will become more fluid and you’ll improve your qigong.
By integrating wabi sabi into your qigong practice and also everyday life, you’ll let go of stress and tension, sleep better at night and feel more energised during the day.
Rediscover Wholeness with Kintsugi (all materials will be provided for this)
Broken ceramic bowl that has been joined back together using golden glue (kintsugi)
Experience the magic of kintsugi (literally “golden joinery”), which is the centuries-old Japanese art of mending broken pottery with golden glue.
This practice teaches us that flaws and cracks are what make us truly unique. By applying this philosophy to life, you’ll learn to see beauty in every moment and cherish the golden experiences that shape you.
During this workshop, and with the guidance of an expert sensei (teacher), you’ll create your own kintsugi piece to take home—a beautiful reminder that nothing is ever truly broken.
Explore the Tranquil Auckland Botanic Gardens
Camellia garden in the Auckland Botanic Gardens
At the end of the retreat, there will be time for your own self-guided tour of these peaceful gardens. You may like to:
- Explore the serene beauty of the Camellia Garden, which will be just coming into bloom. Camellias are native to both China and Japan (and other parts of Eastern and Southern Asia).
- Immerse yourself in Shinrin-yoku (Japanese for ‘forest bathing’) in the dappled seclusion of the native bush area.
- Admire: the many fascinating and intriguing sculptures throughout the gardens.
- Embark on your own ‘sniffari’ and delight in the aromas of the edible and herb gardens.
- Get dreamy with the palms or in the rose garden.
- Or simply wend your way along the many walkways to feast your eyes and senses on nature at its best.
$195 per person | Limited to 10 participants.
Please contact Jocelyn (of Kia Ora Tai Chi) to reserve a place in this unique retreat by phoning or texting her on 027 493 9851, or using the Contact Form on the Kia Ora Tai Chi website. She will advise options for payment.
About your instructors
Jocelyn Watkin
Jocelyn Watkin is a qualified qigong and tai chi instructor in Auckland, New Zealand, who has been enjoying the health benefits of these ancient Chinese arts for over 20 years. She has visited China three times and Japan over 10 times. She loves exploring and researching the traditional philosophy and the concept of Zen of both countries.
She is the founder and director of Kia Ora Tai Chi and is registered as a group exercise provider (with own choreography) with the New Zealand Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs).
Testimonial: “I really enjoyed your style, Jocelyn. Friendly, caring, informative and non-judgemental. You made me feel relaxed and welcome. Thank you.” (Participant in the Stardome mini-retreat, March 2022)
Ema Frost
Ema Frost is a New Zealand artist, illustrator and ceramic designer who has been teaching Kintsugi for over five years. She regularly travels to Japan to study and learn new techniques.
Testimonial: “I really enjoyed the kintsugi workshop with Ema. She is very patient and a great teacher. And now I have the skills to make anything with this style, and have even made one as a gift. Really enjoyable day. Fun and relaxed atmosphere. Would definitely recommend this workshop. (Lisa)
Who should attend?
This workshop is open to anyone aged 18+ who seeks to refresh and rebalance their body, mind, and soul. Ideal for beginners and also for tai chi and qigong enthusiasts who want to get more out of their practice.
Here are all the details of this 1-Day Retreat for Healing Qigong and the Zen of Kintsugi (Golden Harmony)
When: Saturday 3 May 2025, 9am – 3.30pm, please arrive between 8.45 – 9am
Where: Auckland Botanic Gardens (in the Friends Building), 102 Hill Road, The Gardens, Auckland 2105
Parking: Plenty of free parking is available in the main car park at the Auckland Botanic Gardens. The Friends Building is a small house located next to the main carpark (on the Western side of the car park).
What to wear: Comfortable, loose clothing that is easy to move in and flat-soled shoes. Please bring a jersey or hoodie to keep warm, as we will be sitting still for some of the time. If you want to explore the gardens after the retreat, please also bring an outdoor jacket.
Please bring: Your lunch, pen and paper to take notes, filled water bottle and a snack.
$195 per person | Limited to 10 participants
Please contact Jocelyn to reserve a place in this unique retreat by phoning or texting her on 027 493 9851, or using the Contact Form on the Kia Ora Tai Chi website. She will advise options for payment.
What is qigong (pronounced chee-gong)?
Qigong breathing is healing and liberating
For thousands of years the Chinese have had a secret. A secret that helps to increase longevity and assists the body to heal from injury, illness and trauma.
That secret is qigong – a deep, meditative breathing and movement exercise that connects the mind to the body.
The main reasons why people learn qigong are to manage and reduce stress, and improve their overall health and well-being.
Qigong is about releasing stress, not suppressing it. Through special qigong breathing you can learn how to let go of stress so you can enjoy more of the good and creative things in life.
Jocelyn and Ema would love to share their knowledge with you at this very special retreat so you can immerse yourself in Healing Qigong and the Zen of Kintsugi.
Cancellation policy
This retreat must be paid for in full to reserve your place. A 90% refund is available if you withdraw before 1 February 2025. A 50% refund is available if you withdraw before 1 March 2025. No refunds are available from 1 March onwards.
If you are unwell on the workshop day (3 May 2025)
Please do not attend if you are sick or have cold or ‘flu-like symptoms. In these circumstances, you will be issued with a credit to attend another tai chi or qigong workshop or retreat by Kia Ora Tai Chi.
All participants will need to respect the need for social distancing at all times during the retreat. Anyone is welcome to wear a face mask if they wish.
The room will be well-ventilated and hand sanitiser will be provided.
We will abide by the NZ Government’s health advice and regulations as they apply at the time of this retreat.
by Jocelyn Watkin | Jul 10, 2024 | Information |
The Italian Renaissance “Destination Garden” in the Hamilton Gardens
This event has SOLD OUT for Sunday 28 July 2024. Please contact us to go on the waiting list or to reserve your place on the next e-bike/tai chi outing/event. https://www.kiaorataichi.nz/contact-us/
Ever wish you could take time just for you to savour something new that will refresh your mind and rejuvenate your body? Definitely, and the wait is over.
Here’s your chance to treat yourself with a very special, fully-escorted, 1-day outing with gentle e-bike cycling and tai chi, and the opportunity to connect with nature in the peaceful beauty of Hamilton Gardens.
Date: Sunday 28 July, 8.45am to 5pm (This event was scheduled for Sun 21 July, but was postponed to the 28th due to rain)
All provided: E-bike and helmet hire, a tranquil tai chi lesson, and return transport to Hamilton Gardens from Auckland.
This fully-escorted event is for you if you’d love to experience the following:
Wellbeing on wheels: Te Awa, The Great New Zealand River Ride: You’ll gently pedal the remarkable Te Awa Trail on an e-bike. You’ll be gliding beside the majestic Waikato River for most of this 2-hour ride between Ngāruawāhia and the world-class Hamilton Gardens. There’ll be plenty of time for photos and to just soak in the scenery, while enjoying the quiet power of your e-bike as it softly purrs along this dedicated cycleway.
Tranquil tai chi: In the afternoon, you’re in for another treat in the serene and private Camellia Garden (within Hamilton Gardens). You’ll learn the flowing movements of tai chi from Jocelyn of Kia Ora Tai Chi. This ancient, restorative practice from China, which is gentle on joints, will re-energise you and nourish your own internal river of life – your mauri, your life force. Perfect for beginners.
The opportunity to nurture yourself in nature and to feed your soul: After tai chi, you could further uplift your wairua (your soul/spiritual wellbeing) with your own mindful walk to connect with te taiao (nature) in the wider garden area. Alternatively, you could explore a couple of the amazing and inspiring ‘destination’ gardens, where you might feel you have time-travelled to Renaissance-era Italy, or ancient Egypt, or to modernist, mid 20th-Century Californian Cool.
Our tranquil tai chi session will be held in the circle of peace in the secluded camellia garden (within Hamilton Gardens)
This event will start and finish at: Electrify NZ Botany – New Zealand’s e-bike specialists. Address: 12b Amera Place, Botany Downs, Auckland 2013
What you need to bring/wear:
- Suitable, warm clothing and shoes for cycling in cooler weather, including gloves.
- Waterproof jacket/coat and, if you have them, waterproof leggings.
- A change of clothes in case we get an unexpected rain shower while cycling (these can be transported for you in the shuttle bus from Auckland).
- Bring your own lunch, snacks and a filled water bottle.
Open to anyone aged 18+ who knows how to ride a bike. Places limited to 10 people.
Sponsors: This event is proudly sponsored by River Riders, Electrify NZ Botany and Jocelyn Watkin of Kia Ora Tai Chi as a fundraiser for the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand during Mindfulness Month in July 2024.
Price: A donation/koha of $65 (or more) per person to the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand (please check the arrangements to pay this, which are detailed further below).
If you want to meet new friends, re-energise your body, reset your mind and renew your spirit then this event is for you.
RSVP/Reserving your place: Please note that this event has now SOLD OUT. Places are limited to just 10 people and we expect these will sell out quickly. Before you make your donation, please first RSVP and confirm your booking with Jocelyn using the contact form on the Kia Ora Tai Chi website or click on https://www.kiaorataichi.nz/contact-us/
Programme for Sunday 28 July
- 8.50am: Arrive at Electrify NZ Botany. Address: 12b Amera Place, Botany Downs, Auckland 2013. Plenty of free parking available.
- Just after 9am, your journey to the Waikato will begin with a comfortable shuttle ride to Ngāruawāhia. Once there, you’ll receive your helmet, e-bike and a full safety induction.
- Wellbeing on wheels: At around 11am, you’ll set off on your e-bike on the remarkable Te Awa Trail. This will be fully escorted. On arrival at the River Riders base in the world-class Hamilton Gardens, you’ll be able to rest and eat your BYO lunch.
- Tranquil tai chi: After lunch, you’re in for another treat with a tai chi lesson in the serene and private Camellia Garden.
- Nurture yourself in nature – food for your soul. After tai chi, there’ll be free time for your own mindful walk in nature or to go exploring in a couple of the diverse and inspiring destination gardens (also called walled gardens) within Hamilton Gardens.
- Return to Auckland. Just after 3pm, everyone gathers at the River Riders base in Hamilton Gardens for departure in the comfortable shuttle bus back to Auckland. You’ll arrive at Electrify NZ Botany at approximately 5pm.
River Riders base at the Hamilton Gardens
Koha/donation
This outing/event is a fundraiser for the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand (the Foundation) during Mindfulness Month in July 2024. Participants will need to make a donation/koha to take part in this event.
The e-bike and helmet hire cost, transport and tai chi lesson are sponsored by River Riders, Electrify NZ Botany and Jocelyn Watkin of Kia Ora Tai Chi. In addition to your koha, the only other cost is $10 for insurance on the e-bike hire. This is payable on the day of the ride.
To ensure that 100% of your donation will go directly to the Mental Health Foundation of NZ, the sponsors are also generously donating their own and their staff’s time for this event.
The ticket price of a 1-day event like this would be around $150 per person. As such, to participate in this event, you are invited to donate at least $65 per person to the Foundation.
How to make your donation
Places are limited to just 10 people. We expect these will sell out quickly, so your first step will be to contact Jocelyn of Kia Ora Tai Chi to ensure there is a place available for you. r,
Jocelyn will confirm your place and provide you with a unique payment link so you can arrange your donation/koha to the Mental Health Foundation of NZ. You will need to make a partial donation of around $30 to reserve your place. Please note that this amount is not refundable as it is paid directly to the Foundation through the unique payment link.
The rest of your donation can be made at any time up until the 27th July. You have the option to wait until the weather forecast is known for the 28th July. If the event is postponed due to the weather, we hope we can reschedule for a later date.
There is a limit of two people per booking. The recommended donation remains as per person.
Postponement/Cancellation
- Early indication: On the evening of Friday 26 July and based on the weather forecast at that time, participants will be advised of the likelihood of going ahead on 28 July.
- By 8pm on Saturday 27 July: The postponement decision will be made if rainy or inclement weather is forecast. Participants will all be advised by 8pm. If we do have to postpone, we hope to reschedule this event at another date. If you are already registered, you will be given first option to attend on the rescheduled date.
Refund policy
Participants will make their donation/koha directly to the Mental Health Foundation of NZ foundation through a special payment link that will be provided to them by Jocelyn. As advised, once this donation is made to the Foundation, it can’t be credited or refunded.
To help smooth the donation payment process, your koha can be made in 2-steps: a partial koha when you register for the event and then the balance donated no later than 27th July and once the weather forecast is known.
To RSVP, or if you have questions, please use the contact form on the website: https://www.kiaorataichi.nz/contact-us/
by Jocelyn Watkin | Jun 9, 2024 | Information |
All ages and abilities welcome for FREE tai chi in the park for the official Matariki holiday.
When: Friday 28 June 2024, 11 – 11.45am
Where: Kauri Point Reserve in Wattle Downs, Manurewa, which is at the end of a street called “Moor Park”. Refer to map: https://goo.gl/maps/MZHeqttC5rBeL6mu9
This is an outdoor event so wrap up warm, pop on a beanie and join in.
Matariki is a time to focus on mindfulness, reflection, thankfulness, well-being and health. The three key principles are:
- Matariki Hunga Nui. Remembrance. Honouring those we have lost since the last rising of Matariki.
- Matariki Ahunga Nui. Celebrating the Present. Gathering together to give thanks for what we have.
- Matariki Manako Nui. Looking to the Future. Looking forward to the promise of a new year.
The theme for 2024 is “Matariki heri kai” and comes from the Māori proverb ‘Matariki whetū heri kai’ meaning ‘Matariki, the bringer of food’.
To acknowledge Matariki and to celebrate life in the present moment, we will gather together for a shared morning tea after the tai chi session. All welcome and please bring some kai/food to share.
Cancellation notice: This session will need fine weather to go ahead. If the ground is too wet or the weather doesn’t co-operate, please look for the cancellation notice by 9am on 28 June on the Kia Ora Tai Chi facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/kiaorataichi/
For more information, get in touch with Jocelyn through the Contact Us page on this website: https://www.kiaorataichi.nz/contact-us/
Find out more about Matariki: https://www.matariki.com/about
by Jocelyn Watkin | Feb 21, 2024 | Information |
A fusion of Chinese and Pākeha tai chi instructors, who are both Kiwis: Juliana (on the left) and Jocelyn
Embark on a tai chi adventure with us to experience Tai Chi for Fun and Energy. There’ll be six FREE opportunities to learn and these will happen across Ranui, Te Atatū and Manurewa for the 2024 World of Cultures Festival.
Tai chi is an ancient martial art from China, which you will learn from Jocelyn, Kia Ora Tai Chi and Juliana, Aroha Tai Chi. Together, we will provide an amazing teaching combo as we are an awesome fusion of Chinese and Pākeha Kiwis.
As well as health-boosting tai chi you will also experience the energy and exhilaration of the tai chi fan. This will be an unforgettable experience with the brilliant colour and movement of the fan, and the delightful snap of it opening. If you’re a seasoned practitioner this will add an extra layer of intrigue and excitement to your tai chi.
Adults of any age and ability will be welcome, especially newcomers, to learn this unique and fun form of tai chi. Children aged 5+ will be also be very welcome, if accompanied by an adult.
Fun with tai chi fans,. Juliana is centre left (in black shirt) and Jocelyn is centre right (wearing red shoes)
Join Jocelyn and Juliana for one, two or all six of these 1-hour, FREE Tai Chi for Fun and Energy sessions. Ideal for beginners. Fans (free on loan) will be provided.
Friday 22 March, 2024: 9.15 – 10.15am, Ranui
- Ranui Community Centre: 474 Swanson Road, Ranui, 0612
- Places limited to maximum of 20. Children aged 5+ will be welcome if accompanied by an adult.
- RSVP to: Juliana, Email: arohataichi@gmail.com or Ph/text: 021 905 742
Saturday 23 March, 2024: 10.15am – 11.15am, Te Atatū
- Te Atatū Peninsula Community Centre: 595 Te Atatū Road, Te Atatū Peninsula, 0610
- Places limited to maximum of 20. Children aged 5+ will be welcome if accompanied by an adult.
- RSVP to: Juliana, Email: arohataichi@gmail.com or Ph/text: 021 905 742
***CANCELLED*** Good Friday 29 March 2024, 9.15am – 10.15am, Ranui Domain, ***CANCELLED***
Easter Saturday 30 March, 2024, 10.15am – 11.15am, Te Atatū
- Te Atatū Peninsula Community Centre: 595 Te Atatū Road, Te Atatū Peninsula, 0610
- Places limited to maximum of 20. Children aged 5+ will be welcome if accompanied by an adult.
- RSVP to: Juliana, Email: arohataichi@gmail.com or Ph/text: 021 905 742
Easter Saturday 30 March, 2024, 2.30pm – 3.30pm, Manurewa
- The Theatre, at Nathan Homestead, 70 Hill Road, Manurewa, 2102
- Places limited to maximum of 35. Children aged 5+ will be welcome if accompanied by an adult.
- RSVP to Jocelyn, Email: kiaorataichi@gmail.com or Ph/text: 027 493 9851
Friday 12 April, 2024: 9.15 – 10.15am, Ranui
- Ranui Community Centre: 474 Swanson Road, Ranui, 0612
- Places limited to maximum of 20. Children aged 5+ will be welcome if accompanied by an adult.
- RSVP to: Juliana, Email: arohataichi@gmail.com or Ph/text: 021 905 742
Saturday 13 April, 2024, 2.30pm – 3.30pm, Manurewa
- The Theatre, at Nathan Homestead, 70 Hill Road, Manurewa, 2102
- Places limited to maximum of 35. Children aged 5+ will be welcome if accompanied by an adult.
- RSVP to Jocelyn, Email: kiaorataichi@gmail.com or Ph/text: 027 493 9851
Nathan Homestead, Manurewa
What to wear: Loose comfortable clothing along with something warm like a hoodie, jumper, cardigan, etc. Please wear flat-soled shoes such as sneakers, trainers or tennis shoes. Please also bring a bottle of drinking water.
What to expect: All of the sessions will begin with a sequence of easy, flowing, warm-up exercises that will be low impact and gentle on your joints. These exercises are designed to improve your balance, overall health and core strength. You can use a fan for free on the day.
Jocelyn and Juliana will then guide you through health-boosting tai chi – a series of linked steps and movements that will be fun and easy-to-learn.
We will finish with the tai chi fan form – a captivating fusion of martial arts and grace, with vibrant sound effects and colour. We’ll teach you how to wield the fan with finesse and flair.
What is tai chi?
Often described as “moving meditation”, tai chi is an ancient Chinese martial art and exercise programme that combines mental focus with relaxed movements. It is sometimes referred to as “taiji” or “tai chi chuan”.
Tai chi not just a physical exercise but a holistic journey towards balance, vitality and greater well-being.
Adults of any age and ability, and children aged 5+ (with an accompanying adult), are all welcome. Places are limited so please RSVP ahead of time.
Come join us, bring your smiles, and let’s make unforgettable memories together with tai chi.
Our Tai Chi for Fun and Energy events are part of the official programme for Auckland Council’s 2024 World of Cultures Festival.
Find out more about:
by Jocelyn Watkin | Feb 20, 2024 | Information |
Huia Lodge Discovery Hub, Cornwall Park
The Huia Lodge Discovery Hub, in beautiful Cornwall Park, is staying open late on Friday 22 March 2024, and everyone is invited!
Energize your body and soul at this FREE Huia Lodge Late event from 5 – 7pm. I’ll be part of vibrancy with my rejuvenating, 15-minute tai chi drop-in sessions during the evening.
Join me on Friday 22 March to shake off the week’s stress so you can embrace a fun evening with lots of other activities, performances and exhibitions.
Location: Huia Lodge Discovery Hub next to the Cornwall Park Bistro (the old tea kiosk).
Address: Michael Horton Drive, Cornwall Park, Auckland 1051. Refer to Google street map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/m85TZUQmcFVPQVZC7
If you are coming to the park with a vehicle, the parking closest to the Huia Lodge Discovery Hub is ONLY accessible from the Greenlane Road West entrance to the park.
The event is organised by the park’s events team. You don’t need to book or register. This event is FREE. Just come, bring whānau and friends and enjoy the fun.
Find out more
