The Retreat is a 30-day programme based in Auckland, New Zealand for those who want to take action to solve their issues with alcohol and drug addiction. We operate on a model that was developed in 1998 by a similar retreat in Minnesota, United States. It is centred around the following principles: separating the guests from their drinking environment, surrounding them with like-minded individuals who are passionate about finding sobriety, constantly reinforcing the idea that they are not alone in their recovery, and introducing the guests to fellow alcoholics whose drinking problem has been solved, in order to give participants living examples of how to stay sober. The Retreat is firmly grounded in the principles of 12 Step recovery. We help guests become aware of their condition, embrace honesty and take direction, leading not just to abstinence, but to an improved quality of life. 

The Retreat is New Zealand’s most affordable residential recovery program for those living with drug and alcohol addiction and is not affiliated with any religious organization. We provide a safe, caring environment, aiming to feel lie guests’ ‘home away from home’. We host between 8 and 12 guests at one time, all of whom have their own room. We also host a weekly support group for families of guests; this support group is available to families even after their family member has completed the retreat.