The Story of God in Aotearoa
28th April - 2nd May
The Story of God in Aotearoa
28th April - 2nd May
Journey through the rich and powerful history of faith in Aotearoa, exploring how God’s presence has shaped the people, land, and culture of New Zealand—past, present, and future. This course invites you to reflect on the unfolding story of God at work in our nation, deepening your understanding of His influence and ongoing presence. Whether you’re passionate about history, theology, or the unique spiritual journey of Aotearoa, this is an opportunity to grow in faith and perspective.
Throughout the course, you’ll uncover the role of Christianity in shaping Aotearoa, learn about key moments, people, and movements of faith, and engage in meaningful discussions that connect the past with the present. Together, we’ll explore how God’s story continues to unfold and what it means for us today.
Five Day Course
We offer The Story of God in Aotearoa as both an in-person and online course. There are limited spaces available so book now.
Course Location
Join us on Great Barrier Island
Nestled on the stunning shores of Karaka Bay, Great Barrier Island, Orama provides the perfect setting for The Story of God in Aotearoa course.
SPEAKERS
Alistair lives with his wife Jeannie on a farm in Paengaroa, Bay of Plenty. He has postgraduate degrees in Theology, History and Tikanga Māori.
His PhD in theology from the University of Auckland focused on reconciliation and Pākehā identity. Alistair is involved in local and national efforts to promote reconciliation between Māori and Pākehā and exploring understandings of what an indigenous form of Christianity might look like.
We are privileged to have Alistair, along with Bradford Haami take us through The story of God in Aotearoa.
Dr. Alistair Reese
Bradford Haami
Bradford Haami is a lecturer in biculturalism at Laidlaw College and holds a Graduate Diploma in Indigenous Theology.
He has preached and taught on biculturalism and reconciliation at churches and faith communities throughout Aotearoa. He has led Māori intercession teams to Mongolia, the Pacific and Israel since 2015. Brad is an accomplished author, journalist and lecturer with added experience in film and television media.
He has also written for critically acclaimed television productions and has acted as a consultant to numerous local and international drama, documentary and feature films. His most recent involvement with the cinema film Mahana. He has also consulted as a Māori knowledge expert for churches, organisations and museums.
We are privileged to have Bradford, along with Dr. Alistair Reese take us through The story of God in Aotearoa.
Why Attend?
Step away from the noise and immerse yourself in The Story of God in Aotearoa course at Orama, Karaka Bay. Surrounded by the beauty of Great Barrier Island, this transformative experience invites you to explore God’s presence in our nation’s history, reflect on His ongoing work, and deepen your faith in a peaceful and inspiring setting.
Five Days of Spiritual input
Experience five days of powerful spiritual input through worship, prayer, and in-depth teaching on God’s presence in Aotearoa. Guided by Dr. Alistair Reese and Bradford Haami.
Enjoy delicious, chef-prepared meals made with fresh, quality ingredients to keep you feeling nourished and energised. Shared in a warm and welcoming dining space, mealtimes are a chance to enjoy great food with great company.
Chef Prepared Meals
We have comfortable accommodation available to relax and unwind in during your stay. Cabins have shared bathroom facilities.
You can upgrade your accommodation options for an additional fee. If interested please discuss when booking.
Comfortable Accomodation
This course takes place in one of New Zealand’s most breathtaking locations. With lush native bush, crystal-clear waters, and stunning sunrises over Karaka Bay, Orama provides the perfect setting to reconnect with God.
Surrounded by Stunning Scenery
SESSION TIMES
If you are joining us online these are our session times
SESSION ONE
8:30AM - 10:30AM NZT
28TH APRIL 2025
SESSION THREE
8:30AM - 10:30AM NZT
29TH APRIL 2025
SESSION FIVE
8:30AM - 10:30AM NZT
30TH APRIL 2025
SESSION SEVEN
8:30AM - 10:30AM NZT
1ST MAY 2025
SESSION NINE
8:30AM - 10:30AM NZT
2ND MAY 2025
SESSION TWO
11:00AM - 1:00PM NZT
28TH APRIL 2025
SESSION FOUR
11:00AM - 1:00PM NZT
29TH APRIL 2025
SESSION SIX
11:00AM - 1:00PM NZT
30TH APRIL 2025
SESSION EIGHT
11:00AM - 1:00PM NZT
1ST MAY 2025
SCHEDULE
The Spiritual Gifts & Battle In Person course is more than just a series of teachings—it's an immersive, in-person experience at Orama, located on the stunning shores of Karaka Bay, Great Barrier Island. Each day is thoughtfully designed to combine worship, impactful teaching, community, and time for rest and reflection, making the most of this incredible retreat setting.
Daily Schedule
7:30 – 8:00am: Breakfast
Start your day with a nourishing breakfast in the main dining room, shared with fellow participants in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
8:00 – 8:30am: Worship & Prayer
Gather in the lodge lounge for a time of worship and prayer, centring your heart and preparing your mind for the day's teachings.
8:30 – 10:30am: Session 1
Dive into the morning’s teaching in the SFS classroom, exploring key topics on the History of God in Aotearoa, led by Dr. Alistair Reese and Bradford Haami.
10:30 – 11:00am: Morning Tea & Devotions
Enjoy a refreshing morning tea in the main dining room, paired with time for devotions and connecting with others.
11:00 – 1:00pm: Session 2
Continue the exploration of how faith has shaped New Zealand’s history during this engaging session in the SFS classroom.
1:00 – 1:30pm: Lunch
Savour a delicious meal prepared by Orama’s talented chefs, providing the fuel you need for the afternoon.
1:30 – 3:30pm: Community Contribution
Participate in meaningful activities that contribute to the retreat environment, fostering a sense of purpose and connection with the Orama community.
3:30 – 5:30pm: Free Time
Rest, reflect, or explore the beautiful surroundings of Karaka Bay. Whether you choose to journal, create in the Woolshed Art Studio, or enjoy the island’s natural beauty, this is your time to recharge.
5:30 – 6:30pm: Dinner
Share a wholesome meal in the main dining room, building relationships and reflecting on the day’s experiences in a relaxed setting.
How Good does this Look!
Karaka Bay is a breathtaking haven of natural beauty, with tranquil waters and stunning landscapes that inspire peace and renewal.
PRICING
Five Day Course
We offer Spiritual Gifts & Battle as both an in-person and online course. Join us in person for an immersive, hands-on experience with Dr. Alistair Reese and Bradford Haami, or participate online to access the same powerful teachings from anywhere. Choose the format that works best for you and step into this transformative journey.
| Features | Online Option | In-Person Option |
|---|---|---|
| The course follows a structured five-day schedule, with in-person sessions held at Orama on Great Barrier Island and online sessions offered live or as recordings. | ✔ | ✔ |
| Learning Materials | ✔ | ✔ |
| Post-Course Support | ✔ | ✔ |
| Takes place at Orama on Great Barrier Island, a serene retreat where you can step away from everyday busyness, reconnect with God, and immerse yourself in nature. | ✘ | ✔ |
| Direct, face-to-face engagement with Bradford Haami & Dr. Alistair Reese | ✘ | ✔ |
| Hands-on, collaborative exercises, prayer sessions, and outdoor activities unique to Orama's setting. | ✘ | ✔ |
| Community Building | ✘ | ✔ |
| Delicious, nourishing meals prepared by Orama’s talented chefs. | ✘ | ✔ |
| Art supplies and access to the Woolshed Art Studio to reflect and create through art during your time at Orama. | ✘ | ✔ |
| Accommodation | ✘ | ✔ |
| Airport pick-up | ✘ | ✔ |
| Pricing | $299 | $1,550 |
Need to ask a few questions?
If you’d like to chat to us before booking you can email us at admin@orama.org.nz or call us on +64 9 429 0063
REGISTER TODAY
Join us in-person at Orama on Great Barrier Island or online for the Spiritual Gifts & Battle course. Deepen your faith, uncover your spiritual gifts, and take part in this transformative experience. Spaces are limited—register now!