by Jocelyn Watkin | Jan 16, 2025 | Information |
Imagine stepping through these torii gates at the Hie Shrine, in Tokyo.
Can you imagine a series of tantalising experiences in Tokyo that nourish both your body and soul? Absolutely! I’ve not only imagined it but planned every detail to bring it to life for you.
Join me in Tokyo in late 2026 or early 2027 for five fabulous food filled days with tranquil tai chi to satisfy your soul.
I have explored Japan over 10 times in the last 22 years. For a long time, I’ve dreamed of sharing my love for Japan with you all, especially its divine and delectable food and its Zen-inspired way of life. I’ve transformed my dream into reality and would love for you to join in.
If you are tempted to immerse yourself in the spirit of Japan and to explore how tai chi and qigong intertwine with profound Zen philosophies, then this trip is for you.
The Zen of tai chi
Tai chi beginners through to seasoned practitioners will all be very welcome.
Spaces are strictly limited to just SIX people, so don’t hesitate—reach out today to secure your potential spot, or to ask for more details. You can email, text or phone me (Jocelyn) on 027 493 9851 or use the Contact Form on the Kia Ora Tai Chi website.
Imagine this…
1. The food – a culinary heaven
Japanese cuisine is a masterpiece of flavours and artistry. You’ll taste ‘heaven on earth’ and sample a selection of sensational and seasonal tasty treats, guided by an expert tour operator that curates in culinary adventures and magnificent meals. Mmmmm, Oishi!! (Yummy)
2. Fabulous foodie experiences
Experience an authentic Japanese cooking class
- Be awed by the art of a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, paired with a delicate seasonal sweet.
- Create your own authentic Japanese dishes in a hands-on cooking class.
- Wander through a dazzling department store food hall, overflowing with culinary treasures.
- Discover top-quality Japanese cooking knives and kitchenware that will transform your home kitchen.
3. Food for your soul
Tranquil tai chi and qigong sessions in peaceful parks
This amazing adventure isn’t just about the sensational food you’ll eat—it’s also about the sensation of balance, harmony, and connection with your mind. In Tokyo, you’ll say, “Kia Ora and Konnichiwa” to these inspiring experiences with me:
- Tranquil tai chi and qigong sessions in peaceful parks.
- A fascinating Japanese Reiki energy healing experience in a real Japanese tea house that has been restored from the days of Tokugawa Shogunate. You’ll explore Reiki’s harmony with Chinese Qigong (the skill of getting more energy, breath, life-force).
- Awesome, ancient shrines and temples.
- The way of the warrior: Strut your stuff like a Samurai – not just cos-play, but also learning the art of wearing and wielding a sword, and testing your skills with Ninja stars.
Learn the way of the warrior
4. Beautiful beds for ‘beddy-byes’
You’ll be able to relax completely in a modern hotel, in your own room with an ensuite bathroom. No futons on the floor—just comfortable beds and restful nights to recharge for each day’s adventures.
5. Small group size
The tour group is limited to just SIX participants (plus me and my two guides, of course), which will ensure a personal and intimate experience.
6. Yes, for ‘shopaholics’ there’ll be time for shopping (or exploring if you’re not into shopping)
Quirky shops like this one selling parasols
Essential Details
- Tour dates: Late 2026 or early 2027
- Adults only: Participants must be aged 18 or over
- Fitness Level: You need to have a moderate level of fitness. This includes, but is not limited to, being able to walk unassisted for 2 to 3 hours or 5 to 8 kilometres daily; stand without support for up to 30 minutes; ascend and descend several flights of stairs; walk over cobbled streets or uneven surfaces; stand on the Tokyo metro train for up to 30 minutes; handle your own luggage.
- Dietary Notes: Unfortunately, due to the specialised nature of this tour, the providers of the food and culinary experiences are unable to cater for special diets.
Pricing
- Price TBA (approx $NZ 7,495 per person) – double or twin occupancy (Not including international airfares).
- Price TBA (approx $NZ 7,795 per person – single occupancy) (Not including international airfares).
- Note: Guaranteed tour departure is subject to a minimum of six people.
Spaces are strictly limited to just SIX people, so don’t hesitate—reach out today to secure your potential spot, or to ask for more details. Please email, text or phone me (Jocelyn) on 027 493 9851 or use the Contact Form on the Kia Ora Tai Chi website.
If you yen for a genuine, authentic and tantalising trip to Tokyo, please join me for this fabulous feast of the senses.
ABOUT YOUR HOSTS
Kia Ora Tai Chi
Jocelyn Watkin
Jocelyn Watkin, based in Auckland, is the founder and director of Kia Ora Tai Chi. She is a qualified qigong and tai chi instructor and has enjoyed the health benefits of these ancient Chinese arts for over 20 years.
She is also qualified in the Japanese practice of reiki (which has similarities to qigong) and has achieved brown belt in the Japanese martial art of karate.
Jocelyn has explored Japan over 10 times and has visited China three times. She loves researching the traditional philosophy and the concept of Zen of both countries.
She has organised and taught several tai chi and qigong, workshops and retreats from 2012 to 2024, including three international tours and workshops.
She is registered as a group exercise provider (with own choreography) with the New Zealand Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs).
With Jocelyn, you’ll ‘feed your soul’ with the Zen of tai chi, qigong and reiki in the soothing serenity of Tokyo’s tranquil parks and gardens.
Eating Adventures
Sue and Janice
Wellington-based Sue Dempsey (on the left) and Janice Kirkwood are the founders of “Eating Adventures”.
Their idea for Eating Adventures started back in 2007, when they began annual food forays to explore the Tokyo food scene, while running their own hospitality ventures in New Zealand. In 2017, they led their first guests on the inaugural “Eating Tokyo” tour.
Their carefully curated “Eating Tokyo” has evolved into a truly unique and authentic culinary experience, which is perfect for anyone interested in getting to the heart of the Tokyo food scene.
They will take you on a culinary adventure to unlock some of Tokyo’s hidden gems. From the back streets of Roppongi to Tsukiji market, the heart of Shinjuku to the laneways of Asakusa, they will introduce you to some of their favourite finds.
by Jocelyn Watkin | Jan 11, 2025 | Information |
Yes, it’s happening and for the 8th year in a row!! The free summer tai chi and qigong sessions with me in Cornwall Park are back for summer 2025. Details below
These FREE sessions are outdoors in Cornwall Park from mid-January to the end of March 2025. All welcome, ideal for beginners and suitable for all ages and abilities.
Dates and times:
- Starting Sunday 12 January 2025, 9 – 9.45am: Please note there is no tai chi on Sunday 26 January, which is during Auckland Anniversary Weekend. There will be tai chi on all other Sunday mornings from 12th January until 30th March 2025 (weather permitting)
- Starting Tuesday 14 January 2025, 6 – 6.45pm and every Tuesday evening until 25th March 2025 (weather permitting).
Location in the park: Same as in previous years. If coming into the park from Greenlane Road West, you’ll be on Pōhutukawa Drive (the main road into the park). The tai chi sessions will be under the trees on the left-hand-side about half-way up Pōhutukawa Drive. (If you get to the roundabout, you’ve gone too far.)
Bring your water bottle and a sun hat/sunblock. Wear comfy clothing and footwear. Registrations are not required, just show up 5 – 10 minutes before each session starts.
As all of the sessions are outdoors, the weather needs to be on our side to go ahead. If you are uncertain on whether the session will be held you can:
I can’t wait to see everyone again who attended in previous years and also to meet anyone new, who would love to try tai chi and qigong this summer.
Curious about tai chi and qigong? Find out more here: https://www.kiaorataichi.nz/tai-chi/
Please be aware that Cornwall Park is NOT owned by Auckland Council. It is a private park, thanks to the generosity of the founder, Sir John Logan Campbell. He gifted his land, which became known as Cornwall Park, to the people of Auckland. Also, huge thanks to the Cornwall Park Trust Board, which administers his legacy and provides funding for these sessions so you can attend for free.
Contact me or sign up for my free monthly newsletter to get an early ‘heads up’ on when there are even more free sessions of tai chi and qigong.
by Jocelyn Watkin | Jul 22, 2024 | Information |
Embrace your creativity by making earth art/nature art (This one was created by Jocelyn)
Do you wish you could simply let go and be free to try something creative – just for fun, just for you, even if just for a day? Abracadabra … your wish is granted.
Join me at the picturesque Ōtorohanga Museum for a transformative 1-day workshop where the ancient arts of tai chi and qigong blend seamlessly with making earth art in te taiao (the natural world/the environment) and with other mindfulness-based art practices.
When: Sunday 22 September 2024, 10.30am to 4pm
Where: Ōtorohanga Museum, 15 Kakamutu Street, Ōtorohanga. Refer to map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/gTwGn9w4PwijLRpA8
Participants: Adults aged 18+. Ideal for beginners.
This unique workshop is designed to help you to let go of your limits, feel in harmony with nature, and be inspired to embrace your own creative potential.
What past participants are saying: “I loved how easy it was to overcome my self-limiting beliefs about art and creativity.” – Participant in the “Awaken Your Senses” 1-day retreat, May 2024
At the workshop, you’ll:
- Learn the soothing art of tai chi and qigong to harmonize your mind and body so you can feel centred and tuned-in with the natural world.
- Experience the tactile delights of leaf rubbing to connect with nature’s textures.
- Immerse yourself in 5-senses nature journaling to become aware nature’s beauty all around you so you can let go and just be in the present moment.
- Create your own earth art/nature mandala, to feel grounded and at peace in the natural environment to further release your creativity. Weather permitting, we’ll also explore the outdoors to forage for materials to inspire your creation to help you feel more connected with Papatūānuku / the Earth Mother.
Creativity is not a ‘magic gene’ inherited by just a few. You’ll discover that everyone possesses the ability to create art that is both meaningful and delightful.
If you have ever been told you’re ‘not artistic’ or ‘not talented’ then this very special workshop is your chance to reclaim your creativity – just for you, just for fun and without limits, without judgement.
This unique workshop is jointly hosted by the Ōtorohanga Creative Conduit and Jocelyn Watkin of Kia Ora Tai Chi. Jocelyn will guide you through every activity with expert care and tuition.
Tickets: $65 per person (+ booking fees of $2.25 apply). All materials supplied including a nature journal.
Buy your tickets through the following link or cut & paste that link into your browser:
https://events.humanitix.com/adult-workshop-inspire-your-creative-flow-with-the-art-of-tai-chi-workshop-code-jwtai?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR017WznEukVtg4XvNVM_sjZraRGRweUY8BMKkIvMyQk5JXA8ZEHzPdu-00_aem_AUfAfPzA0SxMT90Oxk9toD2ij4SoN-b0upPAvwMMPkie8OLPtpf1ZGOFX55DUT6_QwxUW3Rn_FIw9jz9zlAKv4D-
Come along to shake off the winter gloom and revitalize your spirit as we prepare for the renewal of Spring!
What is earth art (also known as nature mandalas or eco art)?
Symmetrical earth art design, created by Jocelyn
Earth art / eco art / earth altars / nature mandalas are temporary designs or sculptures arranged on the ground.
They are usually entirely organic as they are made out of leaves, flowers, petals, twigs, pine cones, shells, and in fact anything natural that has fallen from the trees or been released by the sea. (i.e. not usually snipped or cut).
The style or the ‘look’ of earth art is entirely up to you. It can be structured, concentric, random or eccentric in its layout.
When you forage for your earth art items/materials, they can be selected purely by chance (i.e. what you find on a particular day). Or, you might deliberately search for something in particular because it is symbolic, maybe because you are remembering someone special or a special moment in your life?
I find both the foraging and making process creative, absorbing and fulfilling. You, too, can feel this when you make your own earth art, including letting the peace and tranquility of reconnecting with nature flow over you.
For our workshop, you will arrange your earth art on tables so you don’t have to bend down or crouch on the ground.
Testimonial: “It was so much fun creating earth art … and such a beautiful & replenishing retreat day.” (Participant in the “Awaken Your Senses” 1-day retreat, May 2024)
Free-flow design for earth art, created by Jocelyn
If you need more information or if you have questions, please text Jocelyn on 027 493 9851 or use the contact form on the website: https://www.kiaorataichi.nz/contact-us/
Here are all the details of the workshop
Date and time: Sunday 22 September, 2024, 10.30am – 4pm.
Venue: Ōtorohanga Museum, 15 Kakamutu Street, Ōtorohanga. Refer to map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/gTwGn9w4PwijLRpA8
Parking: Plenty of free parking is available on the road outside the museum.
What to wear: Comfortable, loose clothing that is easy to move in, and flat-soled shoes that are comfortable for walking. Please also bring an outdoor jacket (for when you are foraging outdoors) plus a jersey or hoodie to keep warm indoors, especially as we will sit still for some of the time.
Please bring: Your lunch, pen and paper to take notes, filled water bottle and a snack
Places are limited to just 10 people.
Who is the instructor?
Jocelyn Watkin
Jocelyn combines the calming tranquility of tai chi and qigong with mindfulness-based art therapy and sensory, nature journaling to help people to embrace and develop their own creativity, reduce stress and to improve their well-being.
She is a qualified school teacher (now retired), who majored in art and English literature as part of her training. She has been doing tai chi and qigong (the breathing side of tai chi) for over 20 years.
Jocelyn completed her tai chi instructor qualifications eight years ago because she wanted to share the amazing health and well-being benefits of tai chi and qigong with others.
She is the founder and director of Kia Ora Tai Chi and registered as a group exercise provider (with own choreography) with the New Zealand Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs).
Testimonial: “I really enjoyed your style, Jocelyn. Friendly, caring, informative and non-judgemental. You made me feel relaxed and welcome. Thank you.” (Participant in the Stardome mini-retreat, March 2022)
What is qigong (pronounced chee-gong)?
Qigong breathing is healing and liberating
For thousands of years the Chinese have had a secret. A secret that helps to increase longevity and assists the body to heal from injury, illness and trauma.
That secret is qigong – a deep, meditative breathing and movement exercise that connects the mind to the body.
The main reasons why people learn qigong are to manage and reduce stress, and improve their overall health and well-being.
Qigong is about releasing stress, not suppressing it. Through special qigong breathing you can learn how to let go of stress so you can enjoy more of the good and creative things in life.
What is sensory or 5-senses nature journaling?
Sensory journaling
With sensory journaling, you focus on your five senses to tune into and enjoy the world around you. It’s a pleasant adventure in noticing, savouring and to feel truly alive.
It can be done anywhere – on your deck, garden, street, or even near an open window!
Journaling is not just writing. You can draw, doodle, trace around objects, etc, as part of focusing with each of your five senses: sight, hearing, touch, smell and taste.
This type of journaling helps you to calm your mind and to relax into the present moment, which will help you to reduce worrying, relieve anxiety and to begin to live the life you really want.
Jocelyn learned about the power of journaling when recovering from post-traumatic stress nearly 25 years ago. It enabled her to break the grip that stress had on her and also freed her thoughts to plan for a better and different life.
Testimonial: “Jocelyn was very relatable because quite often what was being taught had been used by her in real life.” (Participant in the Stardome mini-retreat, March 2022)
Cancellation policy
The workshop must be paid for in full to reserve your place.
Refunds are available through Ōtorohanga Creative Conduit up to four days prior to the workshop. Not refundable if less than four days prior to the workshop.
In the unlikely event that Ōtorohanga Creative Conduit cancels the workshop, you will be refunded in full.
If you are unwell on 22 September
Please do not attend if you are sick or have cold or ‘flu-like symptoms.
All participants will need to respect the need for social distancing at all times during the workshop. Anyone is welcome to wear a face mask if they wish. There will not be any paired exercises or touching by others.
The room will be well-ventilated and hand sanitiser will be provided.
We will abide by the NZ Government’s health advice and regulations as they apply at the time of this workshop
Jocelyn (the instructor) has been fully vaccinated for Covid-19.
I would love you to join me for this immersive workshop, which will inspire your creative flow with the art of tai chi.
Earth art, created by Jocelyn
Earth art, created by Jocelyn
by Jocelyn Watkin | Jul 10, 2024 | Information |
The Italian Renaissance “Destination Garden” in the Hamilton Gardens
This event has SOLD OUT for Sunday 28 July 2024. Please contact us to go on the waiting list or to reserve your place on the next e-bike/tai chi outing/event. https://www.kiaorataichi.nz/contact-us/
Ever wish you could take time just for you to savour something new that will refresh your mind and rejuvenate your body? Definitely, and the wait is over.
Here’s your chance to treat yourself with a very special, fully-escorted, 1-day outing with gentle e-bike cycling and tai chi, and the opportunity to connect with nature in the peaceful beauty of Hamilton Gardens.
Date: Sunday 28 July, 8.45am to 5pm (This event was scheduled for Sun 21 July, but was postponed to the 28th due to rain)
All provided: E-bike and helmet hire, a tranquil tai chi lesson, and return transport to Hamilton Gardens from Auckland.
This fully-escorted event is for you if you’d love to experience the following:
Wellbeing on wheels: Te Awa, The Great New Zealand River Ride: You’ll gently pedal the remarkable Te Awa Trail on an e-bike. You’ll be gliding beside the majestic Waikato River for most of this 2-hour ride between Ngāruawāhia and the world-class Hamilton Gardens. There’ll be plenty of time for photos and to just soak in the scenery, while enjoying the quiet power of your e-bike as it softly purrs along this dedicated cycleway.
Tranquil tai chi: In the afternoon, you’re in for another treat in the serene and private Camellia Garden (within Hamilton Gardens). You’ll learn the flowing movements of tai chi from Jocelyn of Kia Ora Tai Chi. This ancient, restorative practice from China, which is gentle on joints, will re-energise you and nourish your own internal river of life – your mauri, your life force. Perfect for beginners.
The opportunity to nurture yourself in nature and to feed your soul: After tai chi, you could further uplift your wairua (your soul/spiritual wellbeing) with your own mindful walk to connect with te taiao (nature) in the wider garden area. Alternatively, you could explore a couple of the amazing and inspiring ‘destination’ gardens, where you might feel you have time-travelled to Renaissance-era Italy, or ancient Egypt, or to modernist, mid 20th-Century Californian Cool.
Our tranquil tai chi session will be held in the circle of peace in the secluded camellia garden (within Hamilton Gardens)
This event will start and finish at: Electrify NZ Botany – New Zealand’s e-bike specialists. Address: 12b Amera Place, Botany Downs, Auckland 2013
What you need to bring/wear:
- Suitable, warm clothing and shoes for cycling in cooler weather, including gloves.
- Waterproof jacket/coat and, if you have them, waterproof leggings.
- A change of clothes in case we get an unexpected rain shower while cycling (these can be transported for you in the shuttle bus from Auckland).
- Bring your own lunch, snacks and a filled water bottle.
Open to anyone aged 18+ who knows how to ride a bike. Places limited to 10 people.
Sponsors: This event is proudly sponsored by River Riders, Electrify NZ Botany and Jocelyn Watkin of Kia Ora Tai Chi as a fundraiser for the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand during Mindfulness Month in July 2024.
Price: A donation/koha of $65 (or more) per person to the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand (please check the arrangements to pay this, which are detailed further below).
If you want to meet new friends, re-energise your body, reset your mind and renew your spirit then this event is for you.
RSVP/Reserving your place: Please note that this event has now SOLD OUT. Places are limited to just 10 people and we expect these will sell out quickly. Before you make your donation, please first RSVP and confirm your booking with Jocelyn using the contact form on the Kia Ora Tai Chi website or click on https://www.kiaorataichi.nz/contact-us/
Programme for Sunday 28 July
- 8.50am: Arrive at Electrify NZ Botany. Address: 12b Amera Place, Botany Downs, Auckland 2013. Plenty of free parking available.
- Just after 9am, your journey to the Waikato will begin with a comfortable shuttle ride to Ngāruawāhia. Once there, you’ll receive your helmet, e-bike and a full safety induction.
- Wellbeing on wheels: At around 11am, you’ll set off on your e-bike on the remarkable Te Awa Trail. This will be fully escorted. On arrival at the River Riders base in the world-class Hamilton Gardens, you’ll be able to rest and eat your BYO lunch.
- Tranquil tai chi: After lunch, you’re in for another treat with a tai chi lesson in the serene and private Camellia Garden.
- Nurture yourself in nature – food for your soul. After tai chi, there’ll be free time for your own mindful walk in nature or to go exploring in a couple of the diverse and inspiring destination gardens (also called walled gardens) within Hamilton Gardens.
- Return to Auckland. Just after 3pm, everyone gathers at the River Riders base in Hamilton Gardens for departure in the comfortable shuttle bus back to Auckland. You’ll arrive at Electrify NZ Botany at approximately 5pm.
River Riders base at the Hamilton Gardens
Koha/donation
This outing/event is a fundraiser for the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand (the Foundation) during Mindfulness Month in July 2024. Participants will need to make a donation/koha to take part in this event.
The e-bike and helmet hire cost, transport and tai chi lesson are sponsored by River Riders, Electrify NZ Botany and Jocelyn Watkin of Kia Ora Tai Chi. In addition to your koha, the only other cost is $10 for insurance on the e-bike hire. This is payable on the day of the ride.
To ensure that 100% of your donation will go directly to the Mental Health Foundation of NZ, the sponsors are also generously donating their own and their staff’s time for this event.
The ticket price of a 1-day event like this would be around $150 per person. As such, to participate in this event, you are invited to donate at least $65 per person to the Foundation.
How to make your donation
Places are limited to just 10 people. We expect these will sell out quickly, so your first step will be to contact Jocelyn of Kia Ora Tai Chi to ensure there is a place available for you. r,
Jocelyn will confirm your place and provide you with a unique payment link so you can arrange your donation/koha to the Mental Health Foundation of NZ. You will need to make a partial donation of around $30 to reserve your place. Please note that this amount is not refundable as it is paid directly to the Foundation through the unique payment link.
The rest of your donation can be made at any time up until the 27th July. You have the option to wait until the weather forecast is known for the 28th July. If the event is postponed due to the weather, we hope we can reschedule for a later date.
There is a limit of two people per booking. The recommended donation remains as per person.
Postponement/Cancellation
- Early indication: On the evening of Friday 26 July and based on the weather forecast at that time, participants will be advised of the likelihood of going ahead on 28 July.
- By 8pm on Saturday 27 July: The postponement decision will be made if rainy or inclement weather is forecast. Participants will all be advised by 8pm. If we do have to postpone, we hope to reschedule this event at another date. If you are already registered, you will be given first option to attend on the rescheduled date.
Refund policy
Participants will make their donation/koha directly to the Mental Health Foundation of NZ foundation through a special payment link that will be provided to them by Jocelyn. As advised, once this donation is made to the Foundation, it can’t be credited or refunded.
To help smooth the donation payment process, your koha can be made in 2-steps: a partial koha when you register for the event and then the balance donated no later than 27th July and once the weather forecast is known.
To RSVP, or if you have questions, please use the contact form on the website: https://www.kiaorataichi.nz/contact-us/
by Jocelyn Watkin | Jun 9, 2024 | Information |
All ages and abilities welcome for FREE tai chi in the park for the official Matariki holiday.
When: Friday 28 June 2024, 11 – 11.45am
Where: Kauri Point Reserve in Wattle Downs, Manurewa, which is at the end of a street called “Moor Park”. Refer to map: https://goo.gl/maps/MZHeqttC5rBeL6mu9
This is an outdoor event so wrap up warm, pop on a beanie and join in.
Matariki is a time to focus on mindfulness, reflection, thankfulness, well-being and health. The three key principles are:
- Matariki Hunga Nui. Remembrance. Honouring those we have lost since the last rising of Matariki.
- Matariki Ahunga Nui. Celebrating the Present. Gathering together to give thanks for what we have.
- Matariki Manako Nui. Looking to the Future. Looking forward to the promise of a new year.
The theme for 2024 is “Matariki heri kai” and comes from the Māori proverb ‘Matariki whetū heri kai’ meaning ‘Matariki, the bringer of food’.
To acknowledge Matariki and to celebrate life in the present moment, we will gather together for a shared morning tea after the tai chi session. All welcome and please bring some kai/food to share.
Cancellation notice: This session will need fine weather to go ahead. If the ground is too wet or the weather doesn’t co-operate, please look for the cancellation notice by 9am on 28 June on the Kia Ora Tai Chi facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/kiaorataichi/
For more information, get in touch with Jocelyn through the Contact Us page on this website: https://www.kiaorataichi.nz/contact-us/
Find out more about Matariki: https://www.matariki.com/about
