Your host
Meet Wade.
He hosts Clear Head Retreat, and he's the one you'll spend the days with.
Why this exists
The short version
Wade set up Clear Head Retreat because there wasn't anything quite like it. Everything he came across was either clinical, expensive, or a hall full of people being told to open up on cue. Nothing that was simply a few good days away with someone who knows the area.
So he built his own version. Turangi, because the hills and the river do most of the work. Three at a time, because it stays relaxed. And no fixed programme, because what one person wants from time off is rarely what the next one wants.
It isn't only for people who need a reset. Plenty come because three friends wanted a few days in the bush with someone who knows the place and does the organising.
Where he's from
A bit of background
Wade was born in Rhodesia, now Zimbabwe, and grew up in South Africa. He lived and worked in the UK for a number of years before settling in New Zealand. He's been here long enough to know the rivers, the tracks and the mountains around Turangi.
He's been self-employed for most of his working life, across a few different industries. Different trades, but always his own business to run.
He's been married for more than thirty years and has two sons.
Away from the work
Running, and helping people
Running and the outdoors have always been how Wade clears his head. Over the years he has completed a fair number of marathons and ultramarathons, which is a good part of why the retreat is built around getting outside rather than sitting in a room.
While he was living in the UK he received a commendation and a bravery award, though he would never mention either himself. Closer to home, he tends to be the one the family call when things get difficult, and helping people has always come naturally to him.
He isn't a therapist and doesn't pretend to be. He is simply good company, whether you feel like talking or would rather talk about the fishing.
How it's held
A few things we believe
Quiet is useful
Most people don't need more advice. They need room to think.
No performance
Nobody has to have it together here, and nobody's checking.
Getting outside helps
A day on the tracks or the water does more good than a meeting room ever will.
You set the pace
Do all of it or none of it. Nobody's counting.
Small and personal
It's a small group, so nobody's managing a crowd.
What's said here, stays here
Nothing leaves the house. It's that simple.
Being straight with you
What this isn't
Wade isn't a therapist or a counsellor, and Clear Head Retreat isn't treatment. It's a few days away, run properly, for people who want the time out.
If you're going through something serious, a few days away isn't the answer on its own. The short conversation beforehand helps us both be honest about that, and if it isn't the right fit we'll happily point you somewhere that is.
In New Zealand you can call or text 1737 any time to talk with a trained counsellor, or contact your GP for support.
Next step
Tell us a bit about you.
Send an enquiry and we'll be in touch. No pressure and no sales pitch.