In a world where environmental concerns often leave us feeling anxious and helpless, it’s inspiring to find individuals in our community who are dedicated to making a positive impact. Dan Whittington and Merve Yesilkir at Hakea Retreat embody this spirit of stewardship with their commitment to sustainable living, guided by the belief: ’’Te toto o te tangata he kai, te oranga o te tangata, he whenua, he oneone ” meaning that while food provides the blood in our veins, our health is drawn from the land and soil.
The journey of Hakea Retreat began on land previously farmed using traditional methods. Dan and Merve transformed this property into a vibrant, sustainable environment by adhering to permaculture principles, which emphasize the importance of not harming the land. Recognizing their dedication, Dan’s parents gifted him the land, confident that their stewardship would yield positive impacts.
Dan shared an amusing anecdote about the property’s history before his parents purchased it. A scientist and professor from Waikato University, deeply involved in researching artificial limbs, once lived there. Before there was a road, the professor would navigate the ridgeline in his Land Rover to reach his small hut for his studies. However, disturbances from planes flying overhead, especially near Hakea, disrupted his work. Frustrated, he wrote to Air New Zealand, requesting a change in the flight path. Despite his efforts, the disruptions continued, leading him to sell the property, which Dan’s parents subsequently discovered.
Dan and Merve’s complementary skills—Dan’s engineering background and Merve’s scientific expertise—allow them to plan and execute practical, workable, and environmentally sound projects. Since taking over the property, they have developed systems to use water and waste sustainably and manage to live completely off the national grid. They have also continued Dan’s father’s efforts to grow the surrounding forest, which has attracted many native birds, including some endangered species. Visitors to the retreat can relax and enjoy the birdlife and the tranquility of the environment.
The gardens and food forest at Hakea Retreat are a testament to the abundance of nature. According to Dan, one could satisfy hunger just by walking through the garden. The retreat boasts goats for milk and meat, bees for honey and pollination, and an array of organic vegetables and fruits, ensuring a diet that meets all health requirements.
A picturesque walk leads down to the sea, where the upper reaches of Aotea Harbour border land that Dan and his father have donated as a reserve. Visitors can enjoy a stroll through native bush and refresh themselves with a swim or by using the provided kayaks for a paddle around the estuary.
In recent times, Dan and Merve have hosted families for longer stays, aware of the local accommodation challenges. They also welcome interns eager to learn about permaculture and off-grid living. Teaching others to live sustainably and giving back to the earth is central to the philosophy of Hakea Retreat.
Every year, Hakea Retreat hosts the Hakea Gathering, an event encapsulated in a captivating video created by Dan and Merve. This video, which took four months to produce, aims to convey the festival’s spirit and beauty to a wider audience and invites you to attend. It can be found on YouTube under the title “Hakea Gathering.”
Camping at Hakea Retreat has become a popular experience, offering campers the joys of nature alongside access to various facilities. These include a communal space for daily yoga practice, art materials, music, and a creative environment.
The retreat also offers a range of courses advertised on their website, https://www.hakearetreat.com/. These courses cover topics such as ecology, succession planting, food forests, permaculture design, and beekeeping, providing opportunities for participants to deepen their understanding and practice of sustainable living.
For those seeking a unique experience where they can observe and learn how to make a difference, a visit to the Hakea Retreat website is highly recommended. Discover how you can contribute to creating a better world by learning from Dan and Merve’s dedication to sustainability and environmental stewardship.
Hakea Retreat is just one of the many appealing destinations in Raglan. To explore all there is to offer, make your first stop the Raglan iHub.
Located at 13 Wainui Road, the Raglan iHub is open 7 days a week from 10 AM to 3 PM. Here, you can meet our friendly volunteer team, who are eager to share their local knowledge and provide excellent tips on the best places to visit and things to do. While you’re there, take the opportunity to shop local and support our Whaingaroa information centre.
Whether you’re planning a visit to Hakea Retreat or looking for other exciting activities in Raglan, the Raglan iHub is your go-to resource for a memorable and enriching experience.
www.raglanihub.nz
Written by Liz Yorston Photos Shelley Rikys
