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About

On the picturesque Matakana Coast of New Zealand, two friends, Andrea and Deirdre, discovered the profound connection between their life's work and a shared passion for creating a positive impact on the world. They soon realised that their combined experiences could create joy, health, and connection for families around the globe.

Our bespoke retreat is crafted with each of your family’s personalities in mind. We provide a nurturing environment and gentle coaching for family growth and connection. Don’t worry if things aren’t running well at home – we have seen it all! Family wellness is a journey, and this is an opportunity to take important steps together.

Whether you are new to parenting, or not, our Bluestone Parent’s Retreat you will learn practices that will make your parenting smoother and more joyful. With the guidance of Deirdre Brandner, Bluestone’s renowned Australian family psychologist and parenting expert you will learn practical parenting practices grounded in research.

Bluestone’s Women’s Retreats is designed for reflection, learning and growth. We cater your personalised retreat to the age(s) of your kids. No matter what your parenting challenges are, we can help. We have seen it all! You will experience a caring, supportive environment that is low key and informative. We will also have some fun along the way!

A unique curated experience 

Growing healthy human beings, whether they are children or teenagers requires knowledge, support and humour. We want the best for our families, but there is no playbook on parenting! Bluestone Family and Parents' Retreats give you the opportunity to be the family you aspire to be. Using our Bluestone Connected Families Model'' we use an integrated, multidimensional approach to family wellness. In beautiful, natural New Zealand you will be gently and powerfully guided to deepen and fortify your vision for your family. This is a time to stop, take stock and focus on the most important aspect of our lives — a healthy family.

The Gift of New Zealand

Bluestone Estate is exquisite with a unique energy. This place will elevate you. This private compound set amongst native bush, white sand beaches, and moments from the renowned Matakana village, you will unplug, connect, and create priceless memories in the peaceful beauty of Bluestone.

BESPOKE AND TARGETED

Whether you want to improve your parenting skills, work on family dynamics, or, have a deeply special time together in natural, bare feet New Zealand, we create the perfect experience your needs. 

Using the Bluestone Family Connection Model™ your retreat is curated especially for your family’s needs by Deirdre Brandner, our highly respected Australian child psychologist and parenting expert, Andrea Grant Robbiati, global CHRO and Georgia Hatzis holistic wellness expert. Whether you are thinking of a family retreat or a parents retreat we know that every family is different with different needs. Our retreats allow you to focus on what is important for your family.

Just 60mins from Auckland and off the beaten tourist track, the Matakana Coast is unique and special.  With miles of untouched coastline, boutique wineries, galleries, the famous farmers market and beautiful white sand beaches the Matakana Coast is where you can do as much or as little as you like. 

A FAVOURITE DESTINATION OF DISCERNING KIWIS

A TEAM OF QUALIFIED
PROFESSIONALS  

Deirdre, Andrea and Georgia are a unique combination of expertise, experience, nationalities and cultures. As a renowned Australian child and family Psychologist, a highly respected Chief Human Resources Officer and an expert  Holistic Wellness Coach they have all bases covered. 

Between them they have lived and worked in the United States, Asia, Australia and New Zealand. These authentic professionals, share a deep desire to provide families with the opportunity to nurture their relationships through a unique program designed to build family strength and connection.

YOU’RE IN THE HANDS OF EXPERTS

Underpinned by evidence-based research, a Bluestone Family Retreat uses Bluestone’s Connected Family Model™, a multi-dimensional approach to family wellness that is enriched with years of clinical, wellness and business experience.

“When parents are empowered through understanding the behaviour of their children, and, have the right strategies for diffusing behavioural challenges, relationship issues or tension, life at home becomes a whole lot easier and happier!” 

– Deirdre Brandner, Australian Child and Family Psychologist 

“I can’t recommend the Bluestone Family Wellness Retreat highly enough. Our family is by no means dysfunctional. We just wanted to improve our parenting and family dynamic. The practical coaching we received from Deirdre has been life changing and everyone is enjoying being part our family a whole lot more.”

Nick and Ella Boyle and kids, Millie 16, Finn 14, Angus 12, James 6. 

WHAT OUR FAMILIES ARE SAYING

If you are looking for accommodations, not a retreat, browse our options.

Authentic connection
at Bluestone