Kirikiriroa Hermitage

Our Kirikiriroa Nuns Residence, established on 30th November, 2021 through the generous support of donors, is the first of its kind—a permanent home for Theravāda bhikkhunīs and laywomen dedicated to practice in the heart of New Zealand.

Nestled in a peaceful Hamilton suburb near tranquil parkland, a short walk to the Waikato river,  it offers a serene retreat while remaining accessible to communities in Auckland, Rotorua, New Plymouth, and Tauranga. The residence provides ample space for nuns and laywomen seeking solitude, along with a well-equipped Buddhist library (see Library) and a dedicated meditation hall.

New Beginnings for NZBST

“The donation of a monastery where one can practice samādhi & insight, meditating well sheltered & at ease, has been praised by the Buddha as the highest of all gifts to the monastics.

Therefore, wise persons, considering their own welfare, build monasteries to accommodate knowledgeable monastics.

With purified, joyful mind they donate food & drinks, robes &lodging to genuine & upright monastics, who share with them the Dhamma to overcome all suffering.

And having understood the Dhamma, freed from all impurities, right here they realize Nibbāna.”

The Buddha, Cullavagga VI.9.2

(Anumodana for Anathapindika for the donation of Jetavana monastery.