In Rhythm With the Seasons
Our Solstice Working Bees are a cherished highlight of our calendar. They offer a beautiful chance for our community to come together, combining energy and skills to care for the land, gardens, and buildings, in exchange for accommodation and nourishing meals.
It is also a time for us to celebrate, pause and attune ourselves to the deeper cycles of nature. Each working bee is slightly different depending on the time of year.
The Winter Solstice invites us to turn inward and reflect – a time to soften, to listen, and return to ourselves. It also marks the ending of the first half of our year and the beginning of our winter rest period.
The Summer Solstice brings with it a vibrant, uplifting energy – arriving in full bloom, radiating light and life! It’s a joyful time at Mana, as our team wraps up a fulfilling year and the centre gently transitions into its summer break.
A Celebration in Motion
The Working Bees invite people of all ages and backgrounds – from families with children, partners or individuals seeking a weekend of mindful work. Most of the work happens outdoors, whether it’s clearing weeds along the road, painting, planting, or general maintenance, every task is a way to nurture the land and the spirit of community. There is always plenty to do!
The weekend begins with a welcome circle in the Octagon, where we come together listen to the bells, and form our work groups. It’s always fun to hear about the different projects on offer and choose where you’d like to contribute. From there, we spend the day working alongside our group on the activity that calls to us most.
After a day of shared effort, we come together to joyfully celebrate the Solstice.
Sometimes we have a concert in the evenings; dancing, songs, or poems, and on some occasions, we light the fire at the Circle of Friends, adding an extra touch of warmth to the experience.
What makes these days so special isn’t just the work itself – it’s the joy of working side-by-side with others, sharing stories, laughter, and the satisfaction of contributing to something bigger. There’s a beautiful balance of effort and celebration.
The Working Bee would not be complete without the incredible meals prepared by our wonderful kitchen team. Throughout the weekend, there’s plenty of fresh baking to enjoy,
At the heart of our Working Bees is the chance to connect deeply with the land, the buildings, and to share in the simple things alongside a community of like-minded people. Many return year after year, drawn by the warm welcome, meaningful work, and the uplifting spirit that fills these gatherings.
Hear from Working Bee Guest Gerald
Gerald Chung is a much-loved member of our Working Bee whānau – he’s attended so many that we’ve lost count! Gerald shares some of his photos taken throughout the years below.
Photos: Gerald Chung
Join Us for the Next Working Bee!
If you’re looking for a way to connect, contribute, and celebrate the rhythms of nature, we warmly invite you to join our next Mana Working Bee.
Written by The Mana Team
