Aio Wira was founded in 1970, by a group of yoga students who gave their time, energy and money to its development. It is not based on any specific spiritual philosophy but exists to support all who wish to develop in body, mind and spirit. The centre is governed by a Trust Board and run by a small staff.
Aio Wira is situated in the Waitakere Ranges on the western outskirts of Auckland City.
Its buildings are set in 4 hectares of native bush, bordered on one side by the Waitakere
Stream and on the other by bush reserves. There are some delightful bush walks both at Aio
Wira and nearby. Other recreational activities close by include Te Henga/Bethells Beach,
the Waitakere Golf Club and Pony Treks.
This beautiful, quiet setting is still very accessible to Auckland City, being no more
than 40 minutes by car from the Downtown area and less than 1 hour by train.
The New Zealand Maori words "Aio Wira" are interpreted as meaning "peace
wheel". This is a symbol for moving in the world from the centre of peace within
ourselves. Aio Wira provides a place where people can come to find that peace, renew their
energies, and gain an understanding of themselves, others and their relationship with the
world.
Groups sharing our vision use the Centre most weekends and often for more extended
periods. Individuals use the Centre for personal retreats, while others work for short
periods in exchange for their keep whenever there is a need.
The centre caters
for group of around 25 participants. Larger groups are accepted from time to time, when
other forms of accommodation such as tents and caravans can be used. Although individuals
are welcome throughout the year, groups take priority, so there may be times when personal
retreats are not possible.
Accommodation for group participants is generally in small comfortable dormitories. Some
single rooms and a double room are also available. There are adequate toilet and shower
facilities. Comfortable sitting areas exist both inside and outside the building and there
is a spacious kitchen dining room. A large attractive and comfortable hall is available
for group activities, and for use by individuals. The hall also contains an interesting
library and a stereo system.
Our sanctuary is situated some distance from the main building. This beautiful building is
a place for quiet meditation and reflection and has a lovely peaceful atmosphere. It is
also available for weddings and other celebrations and rituals.
We have a sauna which is available for groups and other guests to enjoy and a spa complex
is currently under construction.
Guests are asked to bring thein own pillowcase and sheet (or sleeping bag). Blankets and
pillows are provided.
Aio Wira Centre
hosts a variety of workshops and seminars throughout the year. The Centres staff maintain
the facilities to ensure the comfort of the guests, as well as cooking tasty vegetarian
meals. Individuals and groups wishing to use the Centres facilities should contact the
co-ordinator. It is best to make plans well in advance as Aio Wira is usually booked six
months ahead. The Centre can be viewed at any time by prior appointment.
Details of all the forthcoming seminars and workshops are circulated through our
"Programme Of Events" to well over one thousand people throughout New Zealand.
It is also necessary for seminars and workshops to be advertised more widely and this is
the responsibility of the group or individual organising the event.
In ancient times
fasting as a means of rejuvenation and for healing the sick was common. It is once more
becoming a common practice: not just for the sick, but for those seeking a greater level
of well-being.
Aio Wira staff conduct fasts every other month throughout of the year. These are conducted
using high quality liquid nourishment (organic fruit and vegetable juices and broths) as
well as procedures for ridding the body of accumulated wastes. The fasting programme also
gives the motivation and strength to make changes in lifestyle such a moving towards a
healthy diet, a new exercise programme or giving up smoking. The tranquil atmosphere of
Aio Wira is ideal for a fast, especially if it is your first fast. The support of like-minded
people and distance from the temptations of one's ordinary life style are also
important.
The fast proper lasts for 3 days, with a further day and a half being taken to gently and
sensibly break the fast. Individuals often extend the length of the fast, staying on
longer at the centre. Longer group fasts are also held at Aio Wira from time to time.
Instruction and guidance is given by qualified staff throughout the fast. There are also
yoga and exercise session, deep relaxation and mini seminars on health related topics. To
assist with relaxation and detoxification massages and facials are usually available.
From Auckland take the North Western Motorway, exit left into Lincoln Road. At the second set of traffic light at the Lincoln North Centre, turn right into Universal Drive. When you come to the roundabout go straight ahead (second exit). Pass through Ranui and Swanson and bear left up Scenic Drive. Just after "Cassels" tea rooms, turn right into Te Henga Road. Keep to this road until you come to the quarry area. Aio Wira Road is on the left opposite the quarry entrance. Drive carefully to the end of the road to where the Centre is located.
By Bus
Buses depart from the main
bus terminal behind Auckland Central Post Office. From the Henderson departure point take
a bus marked either "Larnoch Cnr" or "Ranui 134, 135 or 136". Phone
the Stagecoach Bus Company on Rideline 366 6400.
By Train
Take the Waitakere suburban
service from the Main Station in Auckland to Swanson or Waitakere. There are no services
on Sunday. Phone Tranz Metro for times 270 5143 or free phone 0800 103080.
Before Departure - please let the Centre know what train or bus you are catching in advance. There may be a small fee for collection.
Take the photo tour of Aio Wira.
Email: info@aiowira.org.nz