Breaking Ground on the Nursing Kuti: A Long-Awaited Milestone!After many years of planning and patient perseverance, we have finally broken ground on the Nursing Kuti. The building consent process took longer than anticipated, but we are immensely relieved and filled with renewed energy to now push this vital project forward with full vigour and enthusiasm. The very first step in this exciting development will be the construction of our new carport, located to the north of the Care Unit, adjacent to the workshop. Following this, we will move on to the core of the Nursing Kuti itself, which will also include a dedicated room for a carer, public toilets, and a shower facility. Finally, in the last phase, we will lovingly equip Auntie Suan’s Kuti with its own shower and toilet.

Kuti 1 Nearing Completion & Historic Kutis Revitalized!Adding to our current wave of construction news, we are delighted to report that we are on the cusp of completing the building works on the new Kuti 1. The final touches are now underway, with the walls being painted and the last details meticulously attended to. This has truly been a beautiful communal project, and one that has taught our Sangha a great many new skills along the way. It is also wonderful to share news about the original monk dwellings on the monastery grounds. Venerable Caranadhammo, who has been residing with us since March, has lovingly undertaken the renovation of Kuti 2 in his free time. This building, though historic, has been brought back to life through his dedicated small-scale work. As a result, at the very site where our first two Kutis were established, we now have two very homely, warm, and inviting meditation huts: one newly constructed and the other lovingly renovated. .

Upcoming Rains RetreatThe Sangha at Bodhinyanarama will be observing this year’s Vassa from July 11th to October 7th. During this period, as is traditional and was customary during the Buddha’s time, we will turn our focus inward, dedicating ourselves more deeply to introspection and practice. For these three months, the monastics will be committed to residing here at Bodhinyanarama.
We also have two very special ceremonies coming up that we warmly invite you to attend. On September 7th, a full moon day, we are honored to hold the Novice Ordination ceremony for Anagarika Alan; the program for this significant event is scheduled to begin at 6:00 PM on that Sunday, and all are cordially invited to witness and share in this joyous occasion. Furthermore, following the conclusion of our Rains Retreat, we will celebrate our Kathina Ceremony on October 12th; this year, it will take place relatively soon after the Vassa ends, and as always, everyone is most welcome to join us for this meritorious annual event. These are precious opportunities to connect with the Dhamma and the Sangha. We look forward to sharing these moments with you.

A Fond FarewellOur maintenance man, Jamie, has informed us of his intention to spend this Rains Retreat at Vimutti Monastery near Auckland, after which he plans to explore other paths of practice. While we will certainly miss his presence, he has already indicated he hopes to visit us again in February 2026. The entire community extends its heartfelt gratitude to Jamie for his many years of selfless and compassionate practice, as well as his invaluable support within our community. His contributions have been immense, particularly with the Kuti 1 project, and we wish him all the very best on his continuing spiritual journey.

Remembering Our Dear Friend, Uncle SomIt is with profound sadness that we share the news of the peaceful passing of our beloved friend and supporter, Uncle Som. He passed away at home on June 15th at the age of 78. Many of us will fondly remember Uncle Som for his loving nature and his unwavering willingness to share the Dhamma with everyone he met, a dedication spanning many decades. His presence and generosity of spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Only recently, he had generously donated to the renovation of our bell tower, a testament to his enduring support for the monastery. His funeral will be held on Monday, June 23rd, at Whenua Tapu Cemetery, 293 Airlie Road, Pukerua Bay, Porirua 5026, at 1:30 PM. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and friends. May he find true peace.

Annual General Meeting (AGM) with a Key Focus on ReregistrationPlease mark your calendars for the Wellington Theravada Buddhist Association’s Annual General Meeting (AGM), which will be held on Sunday, July 13th, 2025, at 1:00 PM in the Sala at the monastery. This year’s AGM carries particular significance as it directly addresses our mandatory reregistration as an incorporated society under the new 2022 Act. Central to this crucial process is the approval of a new constitution, which must comply fully with the requirements of the 2022 Act. We are immensely grateful for the expert and dedicated support of our friend, John. Through his guidance and after much diligent and arduous work, we have successfully drafted this new constitution. It is now imperative that this new constitution be approved by our members at the upcoming AGM.