Retreat for Parents of Disabled Children - Rest, Respite and Supportive Connection (August 2026)
We all know that being a parent of a disabled child can sometimes stretch us to our limits. We also know that so much of our energy is dedicated to some form of caregiving that, over time, it can become very hard to 'switch off' that caregiving part of ourselves. This is why wise time out in an environment away from home can be really helpful.
The challenge is finding somewhere to do that!
This is where the Respite Retreat for Parents of Children with Disabilities can be extremely useful, because it is a period of total removal from everyday responsibilities, in an environment that cares about and understands, recognises and normalises the experience of parenting a disabled child (of any age!)
Importantly, this is a retreat from decision - making and being 'on' all the time. It is a retreat from all your roles, and an opportunity to attend only to your own needs - as and when they occur.
=====
THE OBJECTIVE OF THIS THREE-DAY REST AND RESPITE RETREAT FOR CARERS OF CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIERS
Our aim is to create space for a planned period of respite for you to rest... sleep... have early nights...time for walks in beautiful nature... read a book... sit by the fire... eat long leisurely meals... have time to really talk and connect with other parents... and have time to just be by yourself. It is designed to support your recovery from the load of sustained caregiving, so as to contribute to the sustainability of your role. Essentially, it’s objective is rest and respite for carers.
=====
THE RETREAT FACILITATOR
Liz Weatherly is a Self-Compassion Coach, Mindfulness Meditation Instructor and Clinical Reflexologist. Liz parented a chronically ill child for many years. During the past decade her work has developed a focus on those whose lives involve chronic stress and using effective methods for calming the nervous system and the mind.
The Retreats that she runs for various groups always have this focus, so as to be of real benefit to their participants. You can find out more about Liz at http://reflectionzone.co.nz
=====
WHO IS THE PARENT'S REST AND RESPITE RETREAT FOR?
It is for any parent or full-time carer of a disabled child who needs a period of extended, uninterrupted respite. If you need a safe space to 'switch off', need to alleviate your feelings of isolation as a carer, need sustained rest in a low – demand environment or would simply love the opportunity to have face to face connection with others in similar situations where you can just be real and be yourself, you will find this all at the respite retreat.
If your heart leaps at the thought of three days of down time filling your cup in a beautiful and peaceful location, you will not be disappointed.
=====
WHAT HAPPENS AT THE RETREAT?
This retreat is unique in that there is almost NO programme!
Many Retreats have jam - packed programmes of education and activities, but because this Retreat's focus is on rest and respite, nurturing connection, stillness, time in nature and all the good things that allow our bodies, minds and hearts to relax and refuel, scheduled activities have been deliberately kept to a minimum. There is a guided Mindfulness Meditation on offer each day, but attendance is completely optional.
The only thing we ask is that each participant (if able) takes rostered turns with meal preparation and clean-up and participates in a daily informal sharing circle (because we know from experience that these two things are possibly the most valuable way to create a sense of camaraderie, dissipate the feelings of being alone in our experiences, and forge wonderfully supportive connections with those who are walking the same path).
By keeping the programme to a minimum, and having participants do some simple meal preparation, this is also an extremely effective way to keep costs lower, therefore making the Retreat more financially accessible.
=====
THE VENUE
The Parent's Rest and Respite Retreat is at Evergreen, Rotorua: a purpose- built venue with accommodation for 12 (and a neighbouring property allows for a maximum group size of 16).
Evergreen is very well heated, with a range of comfortable accommodation in shared and single rooms. It is also fully accessible.
Set back from the road, and directly opposite the wonderful Rotorua Redwoods (Whakarewarewa Forest) and all its walking tracks, the lodge is a very comfortable and welcoming space for a group retreat.
Best of all, Evergreen is extremely conveniently located, being only five minutes' drive from central Rotorua, and ten minutes from Rotorua Airport and Intercity Bus Station. Rotorua is serviced by regular flights from all main New Zealand cities; therefore, it is very accessible to those coming from the South Island. There is plenty of onsite parking for those arriving by car.
=====
HOW MUCH DOES THE RETREAT COST?
The Retreat itself costs $750 per person (less 5% if paid in full by 30 June 2026). This includes three nights' accommodation, all facilitation, all meals, all linen, and airport or bus station transfers from Rotorua to Evergreen if needed.
*Meals are simple, nutritious, delicious and plentiful. Gluten, dairy free and vegan/ vegetarian options are available.
*Travel to and from Rotorua is at your own expense, but participants are often able to carpool.
======
IS THE RETREAT ELIGIBLE FOR FUNDING?
The priorities of funding are generally for replacement care and for full time carers to have a planned break of uninterrupted rest. Some 2026 attendees have found that their applications have been within their funder’s eligibility criteria.
If you want to apply specifically for Carer Support Funding, we can provide you with retreat information laid out in line with Carer Support Funding policy, and with examples of documents that could be used to support your application ie:
- A Justification Statement for Carer Support Funding
- A NASC Assessor Summary to go with the Carer Support Funding Request
======
HOW TO BOOK A PLACE AT THE 2026 PARENT'S REST AND RESPITE RETREAT
You will need to book directly with the facilitator - [email protected], 021 988 468 or send a personal message from this event page.
When emailing or messaging, PLEASE provide your contact details (so that confirmation and payment details can be sent to you).
Payment plans are available - please ask.
Please note our cancellation and refund policy:
- Cancellation more than 6 weeks prior to the event - full refund.
- Cancellation between 4 and 6 weeks prior to the event - 80% refund
- Cancellation less than 4 weeks prior to the event - no refund (unless your place can be filled by someone else, in which case we will provide an 80% refund.
This retreat requires a minimum number of six participants. Should this minimum not be reached the organisers reserve the right to cancel the event. In this case, a full refund of all money paid by participants will be given.
=====
OPTIONAL EXTRAS FOR THOSE WHO FEEL LIKE MORE NURTURING OR SOME ADVENTURE
- Individual, one-hour deep relaxation Reflexology treatments with a Professional Reflexologist - $100 (must be booked prior to the Retreat as limited sessions are available)
- Trip to the Waikete Valley Hot Pools $25 plus a small contribution towards petrol
- Skyline Gondola and Luge - basic packages begin at $94
=====
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Yes, this Retreat is open to both individual parents and couples (bedrooms will not be co-ed)
No, smoking/vaping/alcohol/recreational drugs are not allowed at this Retreat.
Yes, there is WiFi and cell reception at the retreat, but we do encourage you to keep your use of your devices to a minimum.
Yes, the venue is accessible (including the bathrooms)
Yes, we can facilitate carpooling if other participants are coming from your area. Just let us know if you want to ride-share.
Yes, it's very common to feel nervous about sleeping in shared rooms, being away from our home and loved ones and spending time with new people. We do our very best to help you feel comfortable and included and simply ask that you do your best to give it a go and see what happens!
Yes, some people do snore, so we suggest you bring ear plugs
No, not everyone will have to sleep in a shared room. Bedrooms are, however, allocated on the basis of genuine need.
Yes, there are laundry facilities at the Lodge.
Yes, there are several good supermarkets within five minutes' drive of the Lodge (and cafes within 5 minutes’ walk).
Yes, Rotorua is a GREAT place for families to visit. If your family want to spend the weekend in Rotorua while you attend the retreat, please speak to us about options for you to attend the Retreat while they enjoy all the other things that Rotorua has to offer.
=====
If you have any questions that we haven't answered, please do ask!
=====
TESTIMONIALS FROM PAST PARTICIPANTS
"Sometimes you don’t even know what it is that you need. Where to turn to for help. Because the layers, the complication, it’s so overwhelming you can’t look up or out. Where is the right place for you, a safe place, a place where you can take the time to see what the next steps need to be for you? Carers are told; we need to look after ourselves. We can’t advocate for ourselves or for the people we care for who are vulnerable and need our voice, if we crumble under the responsibility, run our own resources completely dry.
Carers have relationships that are more likely to fall apart.
Carers have shorter lifespans.
Carers have chronic health issues, suffer from PTSD, burnout.
We are told we need to look after ourselves, but we aren’t shown how. Liz will lead the way. She is a gifted nurturer who very strictly enforces self-care for three nights, two full days. It’s indescribable the valuable of Liz’s retreat. I had no idea what I was signing up for. All I knew was that I really needed rest. I didn’t expect the insights Liz instilled, the life lessons she taught, the peace, the calm, the restoration. In the most beautiful setting, with the most delicious soul replenishing food!
A carer will find it hard to take this time out. To step away will be difficult, it will feel impossible. You should do it for you. But if you can’t, do it for those that need you to care for them, who need you to be strong for them." Renee
"The weekend had a perfect balance between structure and freedom for me. I felt no pressure to engage with everything (often how I feel in groups). The fabulous food, company and sharing nourished me on many levels. I felt the wonderful nurturing holding of the weekend by Liz and I felt so peaceful and relaxed by the end. I really wanted it to carry on for longer!" Julia
“I have just returned from an exceptional 3-day retreat, feeling completely rested and reconnected with myself. As a parent and fulltime carer I often put my needs last, in other words self-neglect, so to sit by the beautiful Lake Okareka and have nothing or no one else to worry about other than MYSELF was beyond special. I was accepted, appreciated & encouraged to see my worth. In caring for others, it’s almost inevitable we will become a servant, but I learned that I have my own permission to set aside some time to care for myself. Why? For me. because I matter too.Absolutely recommend other carers take this one weekend out of the year to self-serve & reconnect with themselves, a reminder for self-care, compassion & relaxation. The location, surrounded by nature, nutritious meals, connection, slow pace, absence of demands, quietness... undoubtably will be something I look forward to yearly. For me.” Renee
"Thank you so much for the wonderful weekend. I wasn't sure what to expect as I have not been to a retreat before. The balance between resting and relaxed 'doing' was fantastic and the facilitation of the sharing circles was first class, led beautifully to reflect on what's happening on our lives and inside us. The sharing was exquisite." Belinda
"I so enjoyed the freedom within the structure of the weekend and the leisurely pace that allowed me to unwind. It was great to be able to take advantage of the sunny days and walk by the lake and in the bush. The sharing circles were really well facilitated and there was a true cohesive feeling about the coming together and sharing of selves. The lodge is set in such a lovely spot and is the perfect venue and location to connect with nature. Coming to the warm and very comfortable lodge was wonderful in the middle of winter." Tessa
"What a fantastic weekend away. I loved the way the Retreat was organised so that we might enjoy free time and relaxation within a structure that honoured each person's need for rest. The retreat centre and surrounds were outstanding. I was super impressed by this carefully considered and well - planned retreat that helped me learn how to be self - nurturing. If it is rest that you are looking for, freedom to lie in and timely gatherings with like - minded people, this is a very special opportunity that is perfect for newbies or seasoned retreat people. Many thanks to Liz." Fiona
"I cannot say what an amazing weekend it was for me. I felt nurtured, safe and loved. The good vibe atmosphere brough back a feeling of wholeness for me at a time that I was feeling empty and hopeless. The way the retreat was run was exceptional. With Liz's calm and gentle way, she encouraged a feeling of total relaxation. The other participants on the retreat were fantastic too. The lodge itself was perfect with every convenience you could have wanted - a perfect location for a good vibe feeling. I couldn't think of a better venue. Thank you Liz for putting this together in such a careful and thoughtful way." Gaylene
"When I read that the retreat included a sharing circle, I said 'No way!'. But on arrival Liz was there and her calm, warm, friendly manner instantly made me feel so relaxed. And when it came time for the sharing circle, unusually for me I didn't hesitate to put my hand up. There were so many wonderful conversations around the dinner table, and I have come away with having met some incredibly brave people, who also helped me to have the confidence to speak my truth. Over the weekend I learned some really big things about myself that I am so grateful for." Val
The challenge is finding somewhere to do that!
This is where the Respite Retreat for Parents of Children with Disabilities can be extremely useful, because it is a period of total removal from everyday responsibilities, in an environment that cares about and understands, recognises and normalises the experience of parenting a disabled child (of any age!)
Importantly, this is a retreat from decision - making and being 'on' all the time. It is a retreat from all your roles, and an opportunity to attend only to your own needs - as and when they occur.
=====
THE OBJECTIVE OF THIS THREE-DAY REST AND RESPITE RETREAT FOR CARERS OF CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIERS
Our aim is to create space for a planned period of respite for you to rest... sleep... have early nights...time for walks in beautiful nature... read a book... sit by the fire... eat long leisurely meals... have time to really talk and connect with other parents... and have time to just be by yourself. It is designed to support your recovery from the load of sustained caregiving, so as to contribute to the sustainability of your role. Essentially, it’s objective is rest and respite for carers.
=====
THE RETREAT FACILITATOR
Liz Weatherly is a Self-Compassion Coach, Mindfulness Meditation Instructor and Clinical Reflexologist. Liz parented a chronically ill child for many years. During the past decade her work has developed a focus on those whose lives involve chronic stress and using effective methods for calming the nervous system and the mind.
The Retreats that she runs for various groups always have this focus, so as to be of real benefit to their participants. You can find out more about Liz at http://reflectionzone.co.nz
=====
WHO IS THE PARENT'S REST AND RESPITE RETREAT FOR?
It is for any parent or full-time carer of a disabled child who needs a period of extended, uninterrupted respite. If you need a safe space to 'switch off', need to alleviate your feelings of isolation as a carer, need sustained rest in a low – demand environment or would simply love the opportunity to have face to face connection with others in similar situations where you can just be real and be yourself, you will find this all at the respite retreat.
If your heart leaps at the thought of three days of down time filling your cup in a beautiful and peaceful location, you will not be disappointed.
=====
WHAT HAPPENS AT THE RETREAT?
This retreat is unique in that there is almost NO programme!
Many Retreats have jam - packed programmes of education and activities, but because this Retreat's focus is on rest and respite, nurturing connection, stillness, time in nature and all the good things that allow our bodies, minds and hearts to relax and refuel, scheduled activities have been deliberately kept to a minimum. There is a guided Mindfulness Meditation on offer each day, but attendance is completely optional.
The only thing we ask is that each participant (if able) takes rostered turns with meal preparation and clean-up and participates in a daily informal sharing circle (because we know from experience that these two things are possibly the most valuable way to create a sense of camaraderie, dissipate the feelings of being alone in our experiences, and forge wonderfully supportive connections with those who are walking the same path).
By keeping the programme to a minimum, and having participants do some simple meal preparation, this is also an extremely effective way to keep costs lower, therefore making the Retreat more financially accessible.
=====
THE VENUE
The Parent's Rest and Respite Retreat is at Evergreen, Rotorua: a purpose- built venue with accommodation for 12 (and a neighbouring property allows for a maximum group size of 16).
Evergreen is very well heated, with a range of comfortable accommodation in shared and single rooms. It is also fully accessible.
Set back from the road, and directly opposite the wonderful Rotorua Redwoods (Whakarewarewa Forest) and all its walking tracks, the lodge is a very comfortable and welcoming space for a group retreat.
Best of all, Evergreen is extremely conveniently located, being only five minutes' drive from central Rotorua, and ten minutes from Rotorua Airport and Intercity Bus Station. Rotorua is serviced by regular flights from all main New Zealand cities; therefore, it is very accessible to those coming from the South Island. There is plenty of onsite parking for those arriving by car.
=====
HOW MUCH DOES THE RETREAT COST?
The Retreat itself costs $750 per person (less 5% if paid in full by 30 June 2026). This includes three nights' accommodation, all facilitation, all meals, all linen, and airport or bus station transfers from Rotorua to Evergreen if needed.
*Meals are simple, nutritious, delicious and plentiful. Gluten, dairy free and vegan/ vegetarian options are available.
*Travel to and from Rotorua is at your own expense, but participants are often able to carpool.
======
IS THE RETREAT ELIGIBLE FOR FUNDING?
The priorities of funding are generally for replacement care and for full time carers to have a planned break of uninterrupted rest. Some 2026 attendees have found that their applications have been within their funder’s eligibility criteria.
If you want to apply specifically for Carer Support Funding, we can provide you with retreat information laid out in line with Carer Support Funding policy, and with examples of documents that could be used to support your application ie:
- A Justification Statement for Carer Support Funding
- A NASC Assessor Summary to go with the Carer Support Funding Request
======
HOW TO BOOK A PLACE AT THE 2026 PARENT'S REST AND RESPITE RETREAT
You will need to book directly with the facilitator - [email protected], 021 988 468 or send a personal message from this event page.
When emailing or messaging, PLEASE provide your contact details (so that confirmation and payment details can be sent to you).
Payment plans are available - please ask.
Please note our cancellation and refund policy:
- Cancellation more than 6 weeks prior to the event - full refund.
- Cancellation between 4 and 6 weeks prior to the event - 80% refund
- Cancellation less than 4 weeks prior to the event - no refund (unless your place can be filled by someone else, in which case we will provide an 80% refund.
This retreat requires a minimum number of six participants. Should this minimum not be reached the organisers reserve the right to cancel the event. In this case, a full refund of all money paid by participants will be given.
=====
OPTIONAL EXTRAS FOR THOSE WHO FEEL LIKE MORE NURTURING OR SOME ADVENTURE
- Individual, one-hour deep relaxation Reflexology treatments with a Professional Reflexologist - $100 (must be booked prior to the Retreat as limited sessions are available)
- Trip to the Waikete Valley Hot Pools $25 plus a small contribution towards petrol
- Skyline Gondola and Luge - basic packages begin at $94
=====
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Yes, this Retreat is open to both individual parents and couples (bedrooms will not be co-ed)
No, smoking/vaping/alcohol/recreational drugs are not allowed at this Retreat.
Yes, there is WiFi and cell reception at the retreat, but we do encourage you to keep your use of your devices to a minimum.
Yes, the venue is accessible (including the bathrooms)
Yes, we can facilitate carpooling if other participants are coming from your area. Just let us know if you want to ride-share.
Yes, it's very common to feel nervous about sleeping in shared rooms, being away from our home and loved ones and spending time with new people. We do our very best to help you feel comfortable and included and simply ask that you do your best to give it a go and see what happens!
Yes, some people do snore, so we suggest you bring ear plugs
No, not everyone will have to sleep in a shared room. Bedrooms are, however, allocated on the basis of genuine need.
Yes, there are laundry facilities at the Lodge.
Yes, there are several good supermarkets within five minutes' drive of the Lodge (and cafes within 5 minutes’ walk).
Yes, Rotorua is a GREAT place for families to visit. If your family want to spend the weekend in Rotorua while you attend the retreat, please speak to us about options for you to attend the Retreat while they enjoy all the other things that Rotorua has to offer.
=====
If you have any questions that we haven't answered, please do ask!
=====
TESTIMONIALS FROM PAST PARTICIPANTS
"Sometimes you don’t even know what it is that you need. Where to turn to for help. Because the layers, the complication, it’s so overwhelming you can’t look up or out. Where is the right place for you, a safe place, a place where you can take the time to see what the next steps need to be for you? Carers are told; we need to look after ourselves. We can’t advocate for ourselves or for the people we care for who are vulnerable and need our voice, if we crumble under the responsibility, run our own resources completely dry.
Carers have relationships that are more likely to fall apart.
Carers have shorter lifespans.
Carers have chronic health issues, suffer from PTSD, burnout.
We are told we need to look after ourselves, but we aren’t shown how. Liz will lead the way. She is a gifted nurturer who very strictly enforces self-care for three nights, two full days. It’s indescribable the valuable of Liz’s retreat. I had no idea what I was signing up for. All I knew was that I really needed rest. I didn’t expect the insights Liz instilled, the life lessons she taught, the peace, the calm, the restoration. In the most beautiful setting, with the most delicious soul replenishing food!
A carer will find it hard to take this time out. To step away will be difficult, it will feel impossible. You should do it for you. But if you can’t, do it for those that need you to care for them, who need you to be strong for them." Renee
"The weekend had a perfect balance between structure and freedom for me. I felt no pressure to engage with everything (often how I feel in groups). The fabulous food, company and sharing nourished me on many levels. I felt the wonderful nurturing holding of the weekend by Liz and I felt so peaceful and relaxed by the end. I really wanted it to carry on for longer!" Julia
“I have just returned from an exceptional 3-day retreat, feeling completely rested and reconnected with myself. As a parent and fulltime carer I often put my needs last, in other words self-neglect, so to sit by the beautiful Lake Okareka and have nothing or no one else to worry about other than MYSELF was beyond special. I was accepted, appreciated & encouraged to see my worth. In caring for others, it’s almost inevitable we will become a servant, but I learned that I have my own permission to set aside some time to care for myself. Why? For me. because I matter too.Absolutely recommend other carers take this one weekend out of the year to self-serve & reconnect with themselves, a reminder for self-care, compassion & relaxation. The location, surrounded by nature, nutritious meals, connection, slow pace, absence of demands, quietness... undoubtably will be something I look forward to yearly. For me.” Renee
"Thank you so much for the wonderful weekend. I wasn't sure what to expect as I have not been to a retreat before. The balance between resting and relaxed 'doing' was fantastic and the facilitation of the sharing circles was first class, led beautifully to reflect on what's happening on our lives and inside us. The sharing was exquisite." Belinda
"I so enjoyed the freedom within the structure of the weekend and the leisurely pace that allowed me to unwind. It was great to be able to take advantage of the sunny days and walk by the lake and in the bush. The sharing circles were really well facilitated and there was a true cohesive feeling about the coming together and sharing of selves. The lodge is set in such a lovely spot and is the perfect venue and location to connect with nature. Coming to the warm and very comfortable lodge was wonderful in the middle of winter." Tessa
"What a fantastic weekend away. I loved the way the Retreat was organised so that we might enjoy free time and relaxation within a structure that honoured each person's need for rest. The retreat centre and surrounds were outstanding. I was super impressed by this carefully considered and well - planned retreat that helped me learn how to be self - nurturing. If it is rest that you are looking for, freedom to lie in and timely gatherings with like - minded people, this is a very special opportunity that is perfect for newbies or seasoned retreat people. Many thanks to Liz." Fiona
"I cannot say what an amazing weekend it was for me. I felt nurtured, safe and loved. The good vibe atmosphere brough back a feeling of wholeness for me at a time that I was feeling empty and hopeless. The way the retreat was run was exceptional. With Liz's calm and gentle way, she encouraged a feeling of total relaxation. The other participants on the retreat were fantastic too. The lodge itself was perfect with every convenience you could have wanted - a perfect location for a good vibe feeling. I couldn't think of a better venue. Thank you Liz for putting this together in such a careful and thoughtful way." Gaylene
"When I read that the retreat included a sharing circle, I said 'No way!'. But on arrival Liz was there and her calm, warm, friendly manner instantly made me feel so relaxed. And when it came time for the sharing circle, unusually for me I didn't hesitate to put my hand up. There were so many wonderful conversations around the dinner table, and I have come away with having met some incredibly brave people, who also helped me to have the confidence to speak my truth. Over the weekend I learned some really big things about myself that I am so grateful for." Val
Where is it happening?
Redwoods Rotorua, 4A Tarewa Rd, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand, Rotorua
Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.
Host or PublisherThe Reflection Zone
