The word retreat can be both a verb and a noun.  As a verb, the word retreat implies withdrawal from a context or a process that can be deleterious to an individual or an organization.  As a noun, the term retreat signals a period of quiet time or a safe secluded place where people can go for meditation and contemplation. 

At the Woodhill Park Research Retreat, both of those meanings hold true.  We began our search for a suitable venue to use as an academic retreat after we discovered that a student attending a course Jens was teaching intended flying to Sydney for a weekend to progress her academic work.  She was going to lock herself into a hotel room, avail herself of room service for sustenance, and spend the weekend writing!  She wanted to withdraw from the telephone, family members, house-hold chores, cats and dogs, etc.  She wanted a sanctuary where she would not be disturbed and where she could write.  Her plight, we found, was commonplace among postgraduate candidates. 

We also knew there was a need for a venue where thesis candidates could learn about research software and be mentored in the science and craft of undertaking research.  We set about establishing such a venue...  After a year of searching out sites, we purchased what is now known as the Woodhill Park Research Retreat.  It remains, as far as we know, the only academic home-stay in New Zealand. (Click here for instructions about getting there.)  The Retreat can accommodate up to twelve people at a time, but typically postgraduate students and academics come by themselves.  Tariffs are very reasonable:  

We have equipped the retreat so that candidates can literally escape to Woodhill Park in order to progress their work.  And whilst they are visiting, we 'feed and water' them and provide academic guidance as needed.  When meals are finished, the candidate can simply leave the dishes and get back to their work.  They can work as late or as early as they wish.  Conversations about thesis work are free over meals or a glass of wine, but one-on-one consultations incur a charge (see Academic Mentoring page).

Sometimes groups of people visit us but mainly, mature candidates who are involved with higher degrees come to stay.  Some come for the day; others for a weekend or a week and some few people have used the self-contained flat for a number of months.  Pretty well every single person who has visited has returned and universally, they adore the food as well as the tranquility[1].  But above all, they celebrate that they actually have permission to make progress.   

 
Notes:

• Sabbatical accommodation is usually available for in two week blocks;
• By special prearrangement, however, a one week booking can be made for academics and researchers who are in transit or on a tight time-schedule. Email Jenny at Woodhill Park Retreat to book;
• Vegetarian meals are supplied upon request and other dietary needs are also catered for.  Additional charges may be incurred dependent upon the extra cost of supplying special foods;
• Woodhill Park is a smoke free property!
• Transport to and from the airport can be prearranged but a levy will apply to defray costs.  (Airport pick-up &/or delivery (one way) $65.00 plus GST.)  Contact us to arrange this;
• A number of days can be set aside for care-givers who need to take a break.  You can book for one or more days to take that well earned break.  Contact us to make your booking;
• A non-refundable deposit of 20% for accommodation and/or meals is required;
• Although a 20% levy will be made for cancellations made one week prior, no refunds will be given for cancellations on the day; 
• We reserve the right to accept or decline bookings.