Please note: From 5 June 2024, the class for new beginners will be held only on Wednesday evenings.
Adults of any age and ability are welcome to join the tai chi and qigong (pronounced chee-gong) evening class for beginners, from September to December 2023. Please RSVP before you attend by texting or phoning Jocelyn on 027 493 9851 or use the Contact Form.
Classes are every Monday (NOW WEDNESDAY) evening 6.30 – 7.15pm (except for public holidays and over the Christmas/New Year period). Your first class is free and please arrive for this class between 6.15 and 6.29pm.
The venue is the St Elizabeth’s Church hall, which is located at 182 Finlayson Avenue, Clendon, Manurewa, Auckland 2103. There is free parking on site. Please refer to this map: https://goo.gl/maps/eLgqq5bHz4ATjBok9
What to wear: Please wear loose comfortable clothing and bring a something warm like a hoodie, jumper, cardigan, etc. Please also wear flat-soled shoes (such as sneakers, trainers or tennis shoes). Please also bring a bottle of drinking water.
Facemasks may be required: Depending on levels of Covid or the ‘flu in the wider community, it may be necessary at certain times to wear a facemask on arrival and when talking with others. If it is safe to do so, you can remove your facemask during classes if you wish, as long as we can all physically distance ourselves. (Please refer further below for other Covid safety requirements.)
What to expect: All of the classes begin with a sequence of easy, flowing, warm-up exercises which are low impact and gentle on your joints. These exercises are designed to improve your balance, overall health and core strength.
Then, Jocelyn and her team of instructors will guide you through health-boosting qigong (pronounced chee-gong) movements and/or a tai chi form – a series of linked postures and steps, which are also designed to strengthen your leg and core muscles and improve balance. The steps are performed in a slow, focussed manner and accompanied by deep breathing (known as qigong, which means ‘breath work’ and ‘energy work’). You can find out more about qigong and tai chi here: https://www.kiaorataichi.nz/tai-chi/
If possible, please attend classes every week. If you miss a class, please commit to practicing at home to keep up with others in your group and to receive the full health benefits of tai chi and qigong. Regular practice can help improve strength, health and balance, reduce stress and lower blood pressure. Read more about the health benefits.
Pricing:
Your first class is free.
After the free class: Prices range from $10 to $15 per class (depending on how many classes are purchased in advance).
If you’d like more information or to RSVP, please text or phone Jocelyn on 027 493 9851 or please use the Contact Form.
Covid, colds and influenza protection requirements when attending classes:
Please stay at home if you have Covid or whenever you have a cold or flu-like symptoms or if someone in your household has Covid or the ‘flu. You are not charged for missed classes under these circumstances.
About face masks: Some of the current students are immuno-compromised. As such, everyone in our tai chi group has decided to help and support their fellow students who are less fortunate with their health. Whenever there are high levels of Covid-19 and ‘flu in the wider community, ALL have AGREED to wear high quality facemasks on arrival and when chatting to others before the class starts/after the class finishes. This is regardless of any lesser requirements recommended by the NZ Government. If you do not think it is necessary to wear a facemask or you don’t want to wear one, your best option is to join a different tai chi group.
If you wish, you can remove your mask during the class, as long as it is safe to do so and we can all physically distance ourselves.
Anyone who wants to keep wearing a mask throughout the class is welcome to do so and their views/wishes are respected by others.
The hall will be well-ventilated as the doors open in ALL weathers, so please wear layered clothing to keep warm.
All instructors are vaccinated, including with all boosters.
If you’d like to have a kōrero (chat) or to RSVP, please text or phone Jocelyn on 027 493 9851 or please use the Contact Form.
The above map shows the location of the evening classes in St Elizabeth’s Church hall. The entrance to the hall and the parking is at 182 Finlayson Avenue, Clendon, Manurewa, Auckland 2103.
Please text or phone Jocelyn on 027 493 9851 for more information about any of her classes, courses, workshops or retreats. Alternatively, please use the Contact Form to get in touch.
Tai chi and qigong are easy, fun and really great exercises, which are good for your body and helpful at reducing stress. If you are unable to stand for very long, Jocelyn and several of her assistant instructors can teach seated tai chi and qigong, which you can do alongside the rest of the class.
What is tai chi and qigong? Often described as “moving meditation”, tai chi is an ancient Chinese martial art and exercise programme that combines mental focus with deliberate and relaxed movements that are gentle on your joints. It is sometimes referred to as “taiji” or “tai chi chuan”.
Tai chi is a subset of the much older practice of qigong, which is a deep breathing and meditative exercise. In Chinese, the word is made up of two characters: ‘Qi’ = air, breath and life energy; and ‘gong’ = working hard to develop a high skill level. Therefore, qigong means: ‘the skill of getting more breath, energy and life’.
Read more about the health benefits of tai chi and qigong.
Please text or phone Jocelyn to have a kōrero: 027 493 9851. Alternatively, please use the Contact Form to get in touch.
Mindfulness Month is about finding peace in the present, while raising funds to help the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand (the foundation) advocate for a brighter future for everyone in Aotoeroa/NZ
During July 2023, I will teach three mindful and restorative sessions anddonate my time as a fund-raiser for the foundation. Instead of paying me for a session, I hope you will consider donating to the foundation instead.
The sessions all have connections to the three key principles of Matariki as follows:
Remembrance: Online, Tuesday evening 11 July 2023, 6.30 – 7.15pm, by Zoom: Mindful, restorative journaling. Remembering our ancestors/tūpuna and lessons from the past can help us to reduce stress today and into the future.
Celebrating the present: Outdoors, Friday 14 July 2023, 11am – 11.45am, Tai Chi in the Park for the official Matariki holiday. This will be held at 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 session will be weather-dependent. If the ground is too wet or the weather doesn’t co-operate, please look for the cancellation notice on the Kia Ora Tai Chi facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/kiaorataichi/
Looking to the future/learning new skills: Online, Thursday evening, 20 July 2023, 6.30 – 7.15pm, by Zoom. Create a calm and centred universe within you with “Out of this World Qigong”. This date also happens to be the 54th anniversary of the moon landing (20 July 1969).
If you’d like to take part in these sessions or if you’d like to enable a friend or family member to attend, please make a donation to the foundation on my fund-raising page for Mindfulness Month: https://mindfulnessmonth.co.nz/jocelyn-watkin
My sessions usually sell for $10 – $15 per person, per session. However, any amount will be very welcome. Even just $1 will make a difference, as every bit counts.
Once you’ve made your donation, please let me know by texting me on 027 493 9851 or email me or use the contact form on the Kia Ora Tai Chi website. I will then email you the Zoom links for the two online sessions.
Of course, you can still donate even if you choose not to participate in any of the sessions.
Why am I doing this? Several years ago, I was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress (PTSD). I was fortunate to have full support and arohanui (lots of love) from my husband, family and friends, professional care from my doctor, and was able to fully recover.
Restorative journaling was a key part of my recovery. The mindful process of journaling enabled me to break the hold stress had on me and free my thoughts to plan for a better and different life.
Later, tai chi and qigong helped to complete healing process as I learned how to use both of these skills to reduce stress on a daily basis, rather than let it build up.
Whatever you decide to contribute, thank you so much for your commitment to the foundation and to all New Zealanders in need of support with their mental health. You can find out more about where the money goes in this link: https://mindfulnessmonth.co.nz/whereyourmoneygoes
Wouldn’t it be amazing if there was a way to rebalance yourself when you felt ‘out of kilter’. Absolutely and I’ll show you the pathway! Through the ancient, restorative art of 5-Element Qigong you can learn how to harmonise and rejuvenate your body, mind and soul.
Workshop 1, Part 1: Saturday 15 April 2023, 10am – 1pm in Manurewa
Workshop 2, Part 2: Saturday 29 April 2023, 10am – 1pm, in Manurewa
According ancient Chinese philosophy, everything in the cosmos and the world (including humans) is composed of five elements – Earth, Metal, Water, Wood and Fire. When these five are in balance, all is well. When they are not, you feel ‘out of sorts’, tired and often stressed.
As a qualified qigong instructor, I offer two very special and in-depth workshops to learn 5-Element Qigong, which synchronises your movements and breathing with the five essential elements of the universe.
In the 1st workshop (Part 1) on Saturday 15 April 2023, you’ll learn:
Gentle, restorative Yin movements in 5-Element Qigong for the spleen (earth), lung (metal), kidney (water), liver (wood), and heart (fire).
How to rebalance yourself when you feel ‘out of kilter’ with the curative power of 5-Element Qigong.
About the fascinating five elements: Earth, Metal, Water, Wood and Fire, how they are inter-connected, including to the seasons, emotions, colours, and the sensory and body organs.
The ancient history of how these elements combine Yin with Yang to improve strength and balance.
How to self-care and nurture yourself with healing qigong to release tension and stiffness.
In the 2nd workshop (Part 2) on Saturday 29 April 2023, you’ll learn:
Gentle, yet powerful Yang movements in 5-Element Qigong for the stomach (earth), large intestine (metal), bladder (water), gallbladder (wood), small intestine (fire).
How to combine Yin with the Yang movements in 5-Element Qigong to help fully rebalance your overall health and wellbeing, reduce stress, and let go of tension.
More about the fascinating five elements: Earth, Metal, Water, Wood and Fire
Restorative journaling to calm and settle your mind so you can create your own tranquil and centred inner-universe to avoid the build-up of unnecessary stress and tension.
A free journal will be provided.
Cost: $75 per person, per workshop. $120 per person for both workshops. (Payable by online banking). The account number will be provided once you RSVP. Please refer to the cancellation policy below.
Parking: Plenty of free parking on the half-circle shaped driveway in front of the school.
Ideal for beginners.
Open to anyone aged 18+, who is seeking to rebalance and rejuvenate their body, soul and strength.
What to wear: Comfortable, loose clothing that is easy to move in, and flat-soled shoes. Please also bring a jersey or hoodie to keep warm when we are sitting still for some of the time.
Please bring: Note pad and paper, water bottle and a snack. A free journal will be provided for Workshop 2.
Places are limited to just 12 people.
Who is the instructor?
Jocelyn Watkin has helped people of all ages and abilities to reduce stress and improve their overall health, fitness, balance and well-being with qigong and tai chi since 2003.
She is the founder and director of Kia Ora Tai Chi with extensive experience in teaching qigong and tai chi face-to-face or online for regular weekly classes, workshops and retreats, at schools, a medical centre and a retirement village.
She is registered as a group exercise contractor (with own choreography) with the New Zealand Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs), which is the recognised quality mark throughout Aotearoa/New Zealand.
She is approved as a strength and balance group exercise provider with the Accident Compensation Commission and has numerous tai chi and qigong instructor qualifications. She also has a New Zealand Diploma of Teaching.
Jocelyn also teaches restorative and mindful journaling to help people manage and relieve stress. When combined with calming, meditative breathing (qigong and reiki) and the mind/body connection of tai chi, journaling becomes even more restorative. The tai chi and qigong releases tension in both mind and body enabling people to focus more easily and more clearly on the changes they can make to reduce and better manage stress in their lives.
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)
What is qigong?
For thousands of years the Chinese have had a secret. A secret that helps to increase longevity, a secret that assists the body to heal from injury, illness and trauma.
That secret is qigong, a deep meditative breathing exercise that connects the mind to the body.
One of the main reasons people want to learn qigong is that it helps with overall well-being and healing.
Qigong is about releasing stress, not suppressing it. Through special qigong breathing you can learn how to let go of stress.
What is restorative journaling?
Writing or drawing in a journal (also known as journaling) can help you to process and understand what is happening in your life, to accept what you can and can’t control, and to focus what you want for your future.
You don’t need to write in sentences if you don’t want to. You can also draw, mind map or doodle, if you wish.
Journaling can reduce frustration and anxiety, free yourself from uncertainty and indecision and take back the control of your thoughts and your life.
It can help you to overcome the overwhelm and create a plan for lasting change and freedom.
Jocelyn learned about the power of journaling when recovering from post-traumatic stress nearly 25 years ago. It enabled her to break the power stress had on her and also freed her thoughts to plan for a better and different life.
Testimonial: “Jocelyn was very relatable because quite often what was being taught had been used by her in real life.” (Participant in the Stardome mini-retreat, March 2022)
Cancellation policy
The workshop(s) must be paid for in full to reserve your place.
All payments are non-refundable but, if you can’t attend, you can nominate a friend, colleague or family member to take your place.
In the unlikely event that Kia Ora Tai Chi cancels the workshop, you will be refunded in full.
COVID-19 policy
Please do not attend this workshop if you are sick or have cold or ‘flu-like symptoms. In this instance and if you can’t find someone else to take your place, you will be provided with a credit towards another Kia Ora Tai Chi workshop, retreat or class.
All participants will need to respect the need for social distancing at all times during the workshop. The venue is big and there’ll be plenty of room for everyone to spread out. There will not be any paired exercises or touching by others.
The venue 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 the workshop.
Jocelyn (the instructor) has been fully vaccinated for Covid-19.
How magical would it be to discover an ancient healing art from China, which could help you to improve your overall health and wellbeing in the modern world? Absolutely amazing.
As a qualified instructor, I offer a rare, in-depth opportunity to experience the magic of qigong (pronounced chee-gong), a rejuvenating technique involving deep, meditative breathing and flowing movements that is 1,000s of years old.
At this workshop, and through the healing power of qigong, you’ll learn how to doself-care and to nurture yourself with:
Deep, mindful breathing to calm your mind and release tension from your body.
Gentle yet powerful movements to restore your energy levels.
Relaxing self-massage to soothe your aches and support your body’s healing process
Ideal for beginners.
When: Saturday 11 February 2023, 10am to 1pm (please arrive no later than 9.55am)
Parking: Plenty of free parking is available on the half-circle shaped driveway in front of the school.
Open to anyone aged 18+, who is seeking to rebalance and rejuvenate their body, soul and strength.
Cost: $75 per person (payable by online banking. The account number will be provided once you RSVP). Please refer to the cancellation policy below.
What to wear: Comfortable, loose clothing that is easy to move in, and flat-soled shoes. Please also bring a jersey or hoodie to keep warm when we are sitting still for some of the time.
Jocelyn Watkinhas helped people of all ages and abilities to reduce stress and improve their overall health, fitness, balance and well-being with qigong and tai chi since 2003.
She is the founder and director of Kia Ora Tai Chi with extensive experience in teaching qigong and tai chi face-to-face or online for regular weekly classes, workshops and retreats, at schools, a medical centre and a retirement village.
She is registered as a group exercise contractor (with own choreography) with the New Zealand Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs), which is the recognised quality mark throughout Aotearoa/New Zealand.
She is approved as a strength and balance group exercise provider with the Accident Compensation Commission and has numerous tai chi and qigong instructor qualifications. She also has a New Zealand Diploma of Teaching.
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)
What is qigong?
For thousands of years the Chinese have had a secret. A secret that helps to increase longevity, a secret that assists the body to heal from injury, illness and trauma.
That secret is qigong, a deep meditative breathing exercise that connects the mind to the body and helps with overall well-being and healing.
How does qigong help your body to heal from injury, pain or illness? A number of clinical trials have confirmed that qigong is proven to increase blood oxygen saturation in your body. That alone is excellent for healing.
There are many different aspects to assist the body and mind to heal, such as:
Medical treatments and interventions
Sleep and rest
A healthy diet
Moderate exercise
Reducing stress.
Qigong can help and support the body with all of the above.
Qigong’s deep, meditative breathing supports your parasympathetic nervous system (also called the ‘rest and digest’ system). The movements, when co-ordinated with your breath and awareness of energy can help you to slow down, relax and to release tensions in your body. This helps you to sleep well, too.
If your body needs energy to repair and heal from injury or illness, qigong breathing can help to increase oxygen level and flow (energy) right down to your smallest cell.
Qigong exercises will massage and stimulate internal organs, which can also help with healing.
Qigong is about releasing stress, not suppressing it.
To reduce inflammation, you need to reduce the damaging effect that constant stress has on your body. Qigong breathing can help you to let go of stress so you can settle your mind and body.
Healing is multi-faceted and we need a number of different things to help us to heal our minds and bodies and to recover from illness, injury and trauma. Qigong can support this process.
Find out more about the healing benefits of qigong:
The workshop must be paid for in full ($75 per person) to reserve your place.
All payments are non-refundable but, if you can’t attend, you can nominate a friend, colleague or family member to take your place.
Please do not attend this workshop if you have Covid or you have a cold or ‘flu-like symptoms. In this instance and if you can’t find someone else to take your place, you will be provided with a credit towards another Kia Ora Tai Chi workshop, retreat or class.
In the unlikely event that Kia Ora Tai Chi cancels the workshop, you will be refunded in full.
COVID-19 policy
Please do not attend if you are sick or have cold or ‘flu-like symptoms.
All participants will need to respect the need for social distancing at all times during the workshop. The venue is big and there’ll be plenty of room for everyone to spread out. The massage exercises are all self-massaging. There will not be any paired exercises or touching by others.
The hall 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 the workshop.
Jocelyn (the instructor) has been fully vaccinated for Covid-19, including with a 2nd booster.
To RSVP to this workshop, or if you have questions, please text Jocelyn on 027 493 9851 or use the contact form on the website: https://www.kiaorataichi.nz/contact-us/
How good would it feel to learn soothing, health-boosting tai chi and qigong on a beautiful South Pacific island? Absolute heaven! This retreat is for you if you want to tap into the legendary health benefits of tai chi and qigong so you can take home that heavenly feeling.
Testimonial: “Jocelyn makes tai chi such an enjoyable experience! She makes everyone feel welcome, no matter what age or level of experience. I love Jocelyn’s humour and her patience too. Tai chi has helped me focus on my breathing and posture. I feel invigorated after each session.” (Cynthia, February 2020)
You can discover the secrets to having more energy and less stress by joining me, (Jocelyn Watkin), for eight days/seven nights in the tropical paradise of Vanuatu. You’ll learn easy and flowing tai chi and qigong to help you to:
revitalise your health and spirits
calm your mind
tap into the Chinese 5-Element Qigong to balance and harmonise your mind and body so you get even more amazing health benefits.
learn special techniques and skills that really work to feel more energised, less tired and to make 2023 and beyond your best years ever.
There’ll be plenty of “you time” to re-discover your inner paradise, too. Visualise this – after a short flight from New Zealand (just over three hours) you could be:
soaking up the sun on the powdery white sands
bathing or snorkelling in the turquoise waters of the lagoon
lolling in a shaded hammock, swaying in the fragrant island breeze that gently sighs through the palm trees.
One of the hammocks at Paradise Cove Resort. The perfect place for reading or maybe a somnolent snooze?
And, that’s just the arrival day! You can do more of this on other days. Imagine your first full day:
Wake up to a tropical continental breakfast with yummy cereals, toasted breads, melt-in-your-mouth croissants, fresh juices and a platter of delicious tropical fruits. (Vegetarian, vegan, gluten free or lactose free diets can be catered for)
After breakfast, relax and enjoy health-giving, stress-busting tai chi and qigong in a shady, thatched beach fare. You’ll be with a small group of other learners and led by a fully-qualified instructor. Yep, that’s me (Jocelyn Watkin).
The afternoon is free to:
Explore the island.
Chill out in the on-site swimming pool or the lagoon with its private coral beach.
Check out the fantastic snorkelling by wading into the soothing lagoon waters. Or, maybe take an exhilarating leap from the jetty?
Take a relaxing zzzz in your own deluxe villa with its delightful mix of Melanesian architecture and European style. Each villa is set in a lush tropical garden and there are just 10 villas in total to ensure peace and quiet.
Lounge with a good book in a deck chair under the palm trees or maybe while gently swaying in a hammock.
Late afternoon, you can saunter into the on-site bar and restaurant (The Nakamal) for a cool drink of deliciousness and lazily watch the sun go down.
You can choose to be on your own or in the company of like-minded others for the afternoons and evenings.
Delectable and scrumptious lunches, dinners and snacks can be purchased at the on-site Nakamal. Or, you can choose to prepare and cook your own meals in your own villa’s kitchenette. (Please bring or buy your own ingredients).
After gazing at sunsets and later the millions of stars twinkling overhead, you can amble back to your comfy, private villa and sink into a blissful sleep, lulled by the soft whisper of the lagoon waters.
This retreat is for you if you are any of the following:
Working or retired.
Are sick of feeling tired or at the end of your tether and want relief that really works.
Curious about the stress relief and other amazing health and energising benefits of tai chi and qigong that you’ve heard about and want to sample these for yourself.
The Stress Less, Live Best Retreat is ideal for beginners as well as tai chi and/or qigong students who want to grow and develop their knowledge.
You need to be aged 18+ to participate.
Testimonial: “Thank you so much for your lovely tai chi classes. The feeling I get is of empowerment and understanding of how we can use our body to help in our daily life.” (Caroline, January 2020)
What’s happening, when and where?
Saturday 20 to Saturday 27 May 2023, at Vanuatu.
8 days/7 nights at the intimate Paradise Cove Resort, which has just five 1-bedroom and five 2-bedroom villas.
4 sessions of health-giving, energising qigong and tai chi with a qualified instructor. Each session will be for 3 hours and numbers will be limited to a maximum of 14 participants.
All of this is just a short flight from Auckland to Port Vila, Vanuatu.
Prices are all in $NZ (New Zealand dollars):
Those who were registered for the May 2020 retreat at Vanuatu will have received an email with the price of your 2023 retreat package, flights and accommodation.
New registrations (all in $NZ)
1-bedroom villa: $2,900* per person, share twin (note: there is only one queen-sized bed in the 1-bedroom villas so this accommodation is better suited to a solo traveller or a couple). Plus: return airfare and any PayPal and credit card fees.
1-bedroom villa, single occupancy: $2,900 + $590 (single supplement) = $3,490*. Plus: return airfare and any PayPal and credit card fees
2-bedroom villa: $3,200* per person, share twin. Plus: return airfare and any PayPal and credit card fees.
2-bedroom villa, single occupancy: $3,200 + $590 (single supplement) = $3,790*. Plus: return airfare and any PayPal and credit card fees.
A payment plan can be arranged on request.
Payment will be made to Kia Ora Tai Chi, by online banking from a New Zealand bank account (without surcharge) or by PayPal, MasterCard or Visa, which will incur a surcharge of 3.5% to 4%.
Please arrange and pay for your own return airfare to Vanuatu. i.e. through your own travel agent or online with Air Vanuatu. Note: your travel agent or Air Vanuatu could charge credit card fees.
*Until paid in full by the participant, events beyond our control such as currency exchange rate fluctuations, pandemics, changes in airline ticket prices and surcharges, or changes in the costs of services or facilities may result in variations to the estimated price.
Payment instalment plan
All payments, (except for return flights to Vanuatu) will be made to Kia Ora Tai Chi. Please pay:
A deposit of $500 per person ASAP to reserve your place on the retreat until paid in full. This amount is non-refundable.
By 1st February 2023: Payment of the final balance remaining, per person.
80% of all payments (not including the deposit) will be refunded (less any PayPal and/or credit card fees) if you cancel before 1st February 2023.
50% of all payments (not including the deposit) will be refunded (less any PayPal and/or credit card fees) if you cancel between 1st – 28th February 2023.
On or after 1st March 2023, all payments become non-refundable.
In special circumstances a refund or partial refund may be offered after 1st March 2023. Please refer to the 2022/2023 Kia Ora Tai Chi Tours and Retreats Terms and Conditions for the full cancellation policy. This can be requested using the contact form on the Kia Ora Tai Chi website: https://www.kiaorataichi.nz/contact-us/.
Flights to/from Vanuatu: Air Vanuatu is the only airline that flies direct from Auckland to Port Vila and ONLY on Wednesdays and Saturdays. If you are flying from Auckland, please book these flights with Air Vanuatu:
To Vanuatu: Saturday 20 May, 2023: Leaving Auckland International Airport at 13.10, arriving at Bauerfield International Airport, Port Vila, at 14.25 (3 hours, 15 minutes flying time)
From Vanuatu: Saturday 27 May, 2023: Leaving Bauerfield International Airport (Port Vila) at 7am, arriving Auckland International Airport at 12.10pm (3 hours, 10 minutes flying time)
What is included in the price (once paid in full)?
Transfers to/from Paradise Cove Resort from/to Bauerfield International Airport, Port Vila, if travelling on the same Air Vanuatu flights from and to Auckland as listed above. (To Vanuatu on Saturday 20 May and from Vanuatu on Saturday 27 May).
7 nights’ accommodation in a luxurious villa at Paradise Cove Resort.
7 luscious, tropical breakfasts at Paradise Cove Resort.
Four 3-hour group sessions of in-depth tai chi and qigong with a focus on how to reduce stress and live best. Small group (maximum of 14 participants).
Snorkelling gear, reef shoes, kayaks and stand-up paddle boards.
All meals (other than breakfast at Paradise Cove Resort)
Note: Paradise Cove has a bar and restaurant on site (The Nakamal) where you can buy your own delicious lunches, dinners, snacks and drinks. The chefs aim for the best blend of Melanesian and Mediterranean cuisine. They can provide special dietary meals, such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten free or lactose free. Should you want to prepare your own meals, you can bring your own ingredients or buy locally as there is a kitchenette in your villa. This has tea/coffee facilities, fridge, freezer, gas stove and a microwave.
Sunset drinks and all alcohol.
All other drinks (other than the juice that is served with breakfast)
Any additional activities and tours while in Vanuatu, including a possible group outing.
Personal travel insurance (compulsory). Please ensure your travel insurance includes cover if you are diagnosed with Covid-19 before, during travel and during the retreat.
All personal items, such as laundry, souvenirs and shopping, etc
Credit card surcharges when paying the price of the retreat.
Any Visitor Visa fees that apply.
Visa entry requirements
Currently, (since September 2022) Vanuatu Government requirements, citizens from New Zealand, Australia and UK (and many other countries as listed by the government), can obtain a Visitor Visa on arrival providing you meet the conditions on entry for the visitor visa. For more information, please check the Vanuatu Government’s website on their visa requirements: https://immigration.gov.vu/index.php/visa-unit/visitors-visa
Please note that visa requirements may change before May 2023. We will advise up-to-date requirements closer to the departure date, but it is the responsibility of the retreat participant to check and follow visa entry requirements and to ensure your passport is valid. Your passport must have at least six months validity, from your last day in Vanuatu.
The Nakamal restaurant and bar at Paradise Cove Resort
What is Vanuatu like? Vanuatu is a string of island pearls glistening in the South Pacific. It is between three to 3.5 hours flying time from Auckland but years away from the stress of everyday life. The name Vanuatu means “Our Land Forever” in many of the local Melanesian languages. The capital, largest city and commercial centre is Port Vila, which is on the island of Éfaté.
Fantastic snorkelling at Paradise Cove Resort
What sort of paradise will we be staying at? Paradise Cove Resort is a lush tropical paradise on the South shore of Mele Bay, which is about 15 minutes drive from Port Vila. Your accommodation will be a self-contained, gloriously-private and luxurious villa. The beach and fringing reef at the resort has a rich variety of marine life. This means fantastic snorkelling straight from the beach or off the jetty. The resort also has a swimming pool.
Weather in Vanuatu: In May, the average temperatures are balmy and range from 21 to 28°C, which will be a welcome relief from the rain and cold of New Zealand at that time. Should you need it, the villas have air conditioning in the bedrooms and a ceiling fan in main part of the villa.
More about the qigong and tai chi sessions on Vanuatu
According to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), everything in the universe, including us humans, is made by five elements: earth, metal, water, wood and fire.
You will learn the 5-Element Qigong at this retreat. It appears simple but it is a powerful exercise and breathing programme that harmonises those five elements within you. It is especially effective for increasing energy levels, improving health and managing stress.
“Qi” (pronounced ‘chee’) is the life energy inside a person that circulates throughout the body to provide inner strength and maintain good health. The word can also mean “life force”, “breath” or “oxygen”. According to TCM, the stronger qi you have, the healthier and stronger you are.
“Gong” translates as “method”, “skill of” or “exercise”. Qigong is a skilled exercise which will help you to get more oxygen and life energy.
At the retreat, you will also learn a unique set of tai chi movements that are designed to relax, refresh and revitalise you.
Qigong and tai chi are natural exercises that are in harmony with nature. They are good for your body as well as your mind, and are helpful at reducing stress. There are no pills, no jabs and we don’t tell you what you can or can’t eat or drink.
This is what you’ll learn at the Stress Less and Live Best Retreat:
5-Element Qigong and tai chi for better health and rejuvenation. This will be easy-to-learn and is especially effective for improving overall well-being and to release stress and anxiety.
How to calm and clear your mind so you can learn how to relax and feel refreshed and revitalised.
How to breathe your way to better health.
How to use qigong and tai chi to feel more energised, bust stress and live best once you return home.
Here’s a ‘sneak preview’ of some of the qigong you’ll learn in Vanuatu. This lovely movement is called “Palm tree swaying in the breeze”:
Jocelyn Watkin has helped people of all ages and abilities to reduce stress and improve their overall health, fitness, balance and well-being with qigong and tai chi since 2003.
She is the founder and director of Kia Ora Tai Chi with extensive experience in teaching qigong and tai chi face-to-face or online for regular weekly classes, workshops and retreats, at schools, a medical centre and a retirement village.
Testimonial: “We think you are a great teacher and inspire the people you are working with.” (Ken and Ann, February 2020)
She is registered as a group exercise (with own choreography) contractor with the New Zealand Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs), which is the recognised quality mark throughout Aotearoa/New Zealand. She is approved as a strength and balance group exercise provider with the Accident Compensation Commission and has numerous tai chi and qigong instructor qualifications. She also has a New Zealand Diploma of Teaching.
Jocelyn invites you to join her in paradise to learn specially-designed, stress-busting tai chi and qigong to help you to live calmer, stronger and healthier.
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)
Covid-19 requirements
All participants will need to abide by Air Vanuatu and the Vanuatu Government’s health advice and regulations as they apply in May 2023. There are also additional requirements, which have been set by Kia Ora Tai Chi, operators of facilities and services for the retreat in Vanuatu. The current requirements (since September 2022) include the following.
If you are Covid-19 positive before you leave your home country, you will not be able to attend this retreat until you test negative.
Any participant who tests positive for COVID-19 while in Vanuatu (or who develops symptoms of COVID-19 and cannot get tested) is required to isolate for seven days or until a negative test. You will not be able to join in with any retreat activities during your isolation period or socialise with other retreat participants.
Isolation can be undertaken in hotels and resorts of your choosing and at your own cost.
Medical care should be sought if there are any danger signs or if symptoms have not improved within 5 days.
You will need to pay all medical expenses in Vanuatu for any ailments and injuries, including COVID-19.
A negative RAT test is required 24 hours before departure from your own country (this can be your own test; it does not need to be supervised).
There is no requirement for international travellers to Vanuatu to quarantine or be tested upon arrival if there are no symptoms and there has been no recent exposure to COVID-19.
Full vaccination against Covid-19 is encouraged but not required.
Wearing of face masks is encouraged on flights, during travel and at Vanuatu airport but not required.
All participants at this retreat may be required to wear a mask for all indoor retreat sessions and also when on shared transport in Vanuatu with other retreat participants, unless an official mask exemption is provided.
Please be aware these requirements could change on or before your arrival in Vanuatu and all travellers and retreat participants must abide by the laws, rules and requirements that apply at that time.
Jocelyn Watkin and any assistant instructors at this retreat have been fully vaccinated for Covid-19, including with a 2nd booster.
Cancellation Policy on payments made by participants:
The deposit of $500 per person is non-refundable.
80% of all payments (not including the deposit) will be refunded (less any PayPal and/or credit card fees) if you cancel before 1st February 2023.
50% of all payments (not including the deposit) will be refunded (less any PayPal and/or credit card fees) if you cancel between 1st – 28th February 2023.
On or after 1st March 2023, all payments become non-refundable
Please refer to the 2022/2023 Kia Ora Tai Chi Tours and Retreats Terms and Conditions for the full cancellation policy. This can be requested using the contact form on the Kia Ora Tai Chi website: https://www.kiaorataichi.nz/contact-us/.
Who is the instructor?
How magical would it be to discover an ancient healing art from China, which could help you to improve your overall health and wellbeing in the modern world? Absolutely amazing.
According to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), everything in the universe, including us humans, is made by five elements: earth, metal, water, wood and fire.