HOSPITALITY

In his Rule for Monasteries St. Benedict, inspired as he was by the example and teaching of Jesus, devotes a chapter to the reception of guests. There he notes that monasteries will never be lacking in guests. This is as true today, fifteen hundred years after St. Benedict, as it was then. Our constitutions take up this theme:

  • Every monastery is to continue the tradition of welcoming guests and the needy as Christ according to local circumstances.
  • Let those whom the providence of God has led to the monastery be received by the brothers with reverence and kindness but without allowing this service to impair monastic quiet (Constitutions and Statutes)
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    People come for a variety of reasons with differing needs and expectations. As far as possible we welcome and accommodate this diversity. To facilitate this there needs to be co-operation among guests, respecting each one's need for quiet, rest and privacy.

    Our constitutions go on to encourage us to 'render assistance to those who come to the monastery looking for deeper prayer'.

    This is done in a number of ways:

  • Simply by providing an opportunity to be in an environment which is spacious, tranquil and holy.
  • We invite participation in our public worship of God celebrated regularly throughout the day, and encourage the use of the Church and prayer room at other times.
  • Consultation with a monk. This is by request and subject to a monk being available.
  • There is also a small collection of books in the guest house which may be of help.
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    PRACTICAL DETAILS

  • Generally people come for a period from 1 to 7 days.
  • The Guest House - located next to the church, has 5 single rooms with a shared bathroom.
  • The Cottage - located 1.5 kilometres from the Church, has 3 single rooms
  • The Hermitage - located in the river gorge behind the monastery, is a small self-contained unit providing more seclusion.
  • All meals are provided although, if a guest has particular requirements, facilities are available for cooking supplementary or alternative food they bring.
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  • There is no access to television and those who bring their own radio or cassette recorder need to also bring earphones.
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  • Note particularly that the weather can be bracing at any time of the year. It is advisable to bring warm clothing. Sturdy shoes are recommended for the walking tracks on the property.
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    COST

  • There is no charge for staying in the guest house but donations are appreciated. This money goes to help with the daily running expenses and maintenance of the guest house.

    • PUBLIC TRANSPORT

    NORSEWOOD is the nearest bus stop. When you have made your booking please notify us so that we can arrange to meet you there.

    PRIVATE TRANSPORT

    We would appreciate guests arriving no later than 7:30pm. If you are unable to arrive before this time please let us know for our convenience.
    As we are a small community those coming by car are asked to bring their own bed linen if possible (sheets, pillow slips and towel). This is to make less work for the community.

    Directions

    Please consult the map. All roads are well sign posted.

    a) From the north.

    South of Waipukurau turn left off State Highway 2 into Takapau Township.
    Travel for another 8kms after leaving Takapau.
    Kopua Rd is on your right.
    The monastery entrance is 800ms on your right.

    b) Approaching from the south.

    North of Dannevirke is Norsewood.
    An overpass spans the highway at Norsewood.
    Kopua road is 2km further north, on your right.
    Follow Kopua Road for approximately 5.3kms.
    The monastery entrance is on your left.

     


    BOOKINGS

    Bookings are essential. We can be contacted by phone (no later than 7.00pm), letter, fax or e-mail. Please inform us as early as possible regarding cancellations, confirmation or changes so that we can accommodate others.

    For further Information:
    Contact the Guest House Staff
    Phone (06) 8558 249
    Fax (06) 8558 259
    Email: guestmaster@kopuamonastery.org.nz