Karamea
Karamea is a rare coastal environment where native forest , rivers and wildlife meet the powerful Tasman Sea.
In 1987 10 acres of land was gifted to the New Zealand Dzogchen Community. This land overlooks the Karamea River and the ocean.
Retreats have been held in this area since 1988 including Mandarava Chuldlen Semzin and Longde pratices.
During the 2009 NZ retreat Rinpoche decided we will build a minimum of 2 retreat cabins on our land for all Dzogchen practitioners to come to practice. For more information please visit our project page.
Attractions in the area
OPARARA CAVES
World famous limestone cave system with rare remains of the Moa a bird species that are now extinct.
GOING NORTH – HEAPHY TRACK
This famous walkway continues north from Karamea into the most beautiful native forest you will see in your life. One can walk in only for one day or continue for 5 days across widely varying flora and birdlife. There are Dept of Conservation huts en route to take comfortable refuge.
GOING SOUTH – PUNAKAIKI
Driving south from Karamea is one of the worlds most spectacular coastal drives, featuring a stunning coast line, Punakaiki’s pancake rocks and blow-holes, lush West Coast native rainforest and views of mountain tops.
Map courtesy of
Backpack NZ