3rd December 2021

Covid + more covidThe traffic light system is in place. We are trying to be clear about our responsibilities and be compliant. Our range of activities presents numerous variations, not always with an obvious way to proceed. For the next while most of our events will be considered as ‘non-pass-required’ with the continuing emphasis on masks and distance. Please have a look at the website to read our current protocol details. Not very often do we have more than 50 people coming for dana and when we do it is usually known in advance so we are able to adjust accordingly.

  • There are two events coming up that will be ‘pass-required’ – the New Year Retreat and NY day. Both involve larger numbers and people coming from outside areas.
  • Guests (staying) will require a vaccine pass. Day visitors generally will not.
  • Since November 9th we have been experimenting with meals in the sala and the meal offering in the cloister with the sala back doors open. This has proved very workable and there are generally more people taking part.
  • I very much presume that there will be more changes ahead. Our general inclination is to keep the monastery as accessible as possible; both for group activities and for personal pursuits. There has been a surprising array of responses to the various attempts to deal with covid; anger, resentment, indignation, fear, etc. – down one end of the spectrum – and acceptance, indifference, agreement, neutral-compliance, etc. down the other end. Regardless of our opinions there is the ever present possibility of being free of suffering. Grasping opinions is the seed of suffering.

    The blessings of the Triple Gem to you.
    NY RetreatWe have reviewed rooms throughout the monastery and opened up several extra living spaces; sewing room, library, etc. The retreat is a V-pass event so, technically, there is no problem sharing accommodation but we are trying to optimise single accommodation. The bottom line is that there are now residential spaces available. Fill out the booking form if you wish to join.
    Meditation WorkshopThis is a non-pass-required event and there is space for about 22 people in the main hall and, weather permitting, we will have the back doors open so the cloister can easily hold heaps more – well, not heaps as you will all be in a nice 2D grid ๐Ÿ™‚
    Samanera AppamadoWe were sad to see venerable Appamado give up the holy life and return to Japan. His presence here was generally very positive. We wish him every happiness in his new life back in his home country.
    Bhikkhuni ResidenceThe New Zealand Bhikkhuni Sanga Trust has recently bought a house in Hamilton and are establishing that as a residence for women. Ayya Adhimutti, a kiwi bhikkuni, will be the first monastic resident. You can view details on the website

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