Milarepa Retreat Centre is a Buddhist retreat and teaching centre offering calm retreat stays in Tauhoa, New Zealand, following the Drikung Kagyu lineage of Tibetan Buddhism under the guidance of His Holiness Drikung Kyabgon Chetsang Rinpoche.
Welcoming visitors from New Zealand and overseas.
Drikung Kagyu Lineage
The Drikung Kagyu lineage is one of the major schools of Tibetan Buddhism, founded in 1179 by the great master Jigten Sumgön. Tracing its spiritual origins back to the enlightened masters Tilopa, Naropa, Marpa, and Milarepa, the lineage upholds an unbroken transmission of profound teachings and meditation practices.
Renowned for its emphasis on Mahamudra and the Phowa practice, the Drikung Kagyu tradition offers a direct path to awakening through devotion, meditation, and wisdom. Under the compassionate guidance of its present heads — His Holiness Drikung Kyabgon Chetsang Rinpoche and His Holiness Drikung Kyabgon Chungtsang Rinpoche — the lineage continues to flourish worldwide, nurturing peace, compassion, and realization in all beings.
Activities & Teachings
Practice, Study, and Retreat
Under the guidance of the Resident Retreat Master, Venerable Kunchok Yeshe, the Centre offers opportunities for spiritual practice and study throughout the year. Activities are held periodically and may include:
Short and long-term retreats
Meditation practice and guidance
Dharma talks and discussions
Ceremonies, prayers, and chanting sessions.
Teachings and empowerments by visiting masters from overseas.
Accommodation huts are available for practitioners attending retreats or wishing to spend time in personal meditation.
Visiting the Centre
Visitors are welcome to come for teachings, retreats, or quiet stays. The Centre encourages all guests to maintain mindfulness and respect for the peaceful environment.
Address: 302A Dyer Road, Tauhoa, Wellsford, New Zealand
Experience Peace and Inner Growth
Join Milarepa Retreat Centre for guided Buddhist teachings, meditation retreats, and a serene environment to deepen your practice.
Centre Grounds and Facilities
The Centre is located on a quiet rural hillside with open land, streams and natural surroundings, creating a calm and supportive environment for retreat and meditation.
These facilities will be further developed to support retreat guests, teachings and community activities.
Future Development of the Centre
Milarepa Retreat Centre is undertaking long-term development to support its growing activities.
Planned projects include a new Prayer Hall, a Community Hall, a Community Kitchen and an Archi Temple on the hillside, together with landscaping and improved accommodation for retreat guests.
Contact us
We welcome your enquiries regarding teachings, retreats, accommodation, or general visits.
Please feel free to get in touch with us for more information.











