CE Retreat for Therapists, Health & Wellness Professionals:
Dream Big Wellness with Abel Tasman Guides
February 20th-27th, 2027
Embark on a fully curated, all-the-way Abel Tasman adventure designed exclusively for your group—a seamless blend of exploration, learning, restoration, and world-class natural beauty.
Beginning with a restful arrival in the charming coastal city of Nelson, you’ll ease into New Zealand’s rhythm before journeying to the golden beaches and lush forests of Abel Tasman National Park.
Over eight unforgettable days, enjoy a thoughtfully balanced itinerary of guided coastal trekking, optional sea-kayaking, cultural insight, continuing-education sessions, and restorative downtime at boutique lodges and beachfront hideaways.
From walking iconic routes and crossing tidal estuaries to savoring fresh local cuisine, soaking in hot tubs, and watching native wildlife from kayak or trail, each day offers a new way to connect—with nature, with community, and with yourself.
Supported by expert Abel Tasman Guides and hosted with care by Bonnie Walchuk, this immersive retreat elevates adventure into an experience of comfort, meaning, and pure New Zealand magic.
Discover the full journey awaiting you in New Zealand’s iconic Abel Tasman National Park. Explore the complete, custom-designed retreat itinerary curated by Abel Tasman Guides & Bonnie—packed with adventure, comfort, and truly unforgettable experiences. View the full itinerary HERE
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“Abel Tasman National Park is renowned for its golden beaches, sculptured granite cliffs, and its world-famous coast track.” - New Zealand Department of Conservation
This is a small retreat - only 13 - 18 spots available! (depending on number of people sharing beds) Register soon!
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8-day retreat guided by a local professional outfitter, Abel Tasman Guides.
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Access to experts with deep regional knowledge (Bonnie has lived, worked, and traveled here).
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6-day custom-designed guided trek through the Abel Tasman Coastal and National Park.
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Two retreat educators/facilitators.
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All excursions, water taxis, and guided tours in Golden Bay and Abel Tasman National Park.
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Optional curated kayaking experience (see add-on price).
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All accommodations:
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2 nights in Nelson, Marahau, Awaroa Farm in Abel Tasman National Park, and in Golden Bay (8 nights accommodation)
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All meals, including catered dining and local restaurants.
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12 approved Continuing Education credits.
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Airport transfers between Nelson Airport and hotel.
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Trip planning support: Schedule an individual consultation with Bonnie for personalized pre- or post-retreat travel ideas.
- Flight Planning Support: support from Bonnie (international traveler extraordinaire) for flight deals and recommendations.
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People who want a supported, stress-free vacation with logistics, lodging, and meals handled for them.
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Anyone needing a restorative break.
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Those who want to unplug from daily demands and reconnect with themselves through nature, movement, and eco-therapy. (Note: cell and Wi-Fi service may be limited on the trek.)
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Therapists seeking continuing education credits or potential business-related tax deductions.
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People who enjoy hiking, beaches, boat rides/water taxis, optional kayaking, and warm-weather travel.
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Participants excited for an intermediate 35-mile coastal trek over six days through golden beaches and native New Zealand landscapes.
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Travelers who love international adventure, cultural learning, eco-therapy, rest, movement, and spa time.
- Flight Cost
- 2 kayak excursions (optional add ons):
- Half Day Guided Kayak at Awaroa to Tonga Island Marine Reserve & Lagoon (optional)
- Half Day Guided Kayak from Tata Beach in Golden Bay (optional)
- Optional spa services, massages, fancy beverages (alcohol)
Meet the Team
Bonnie fell in love with Abel Tasman National Park in New Zealand when she first lived and worked there in 2009, and she has been returning ever since. She is excited to share the park’s beauty and restorative landscapes with you.
An experienced psychotherapy and continuing education facilitator, Bonnie has facilitated or presented at 19 retreats since 2022. She is passionate about creating nature-based experiences, CE trainings, and art therapy experientials that invite participants to reconnect with themselves in meaningful and transformative ways.
As the Executive Director and a founder of the 501(c)(3) nonprofit Dream Big Wellness, Bonnie also works full-time as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Nationally Registered and Board Certified Art Therapist, specializing in cancer care in Washington State.
She brings extensive experience in therapeutic practices and clinical training, with a focus on the healing impact of nature and art therapy on emotional and psychological well-being. Her clinical specialties include supporting adults navigating cancer, medical trauma, chronic illness, chronic pain, end of life, grief and loss, life transitions, and globally mobile lifestyles.
Bonnie is dedicated to advancing the field of art therapy through innovative, culturally responsive approaches. Together with her amazingly skilled business partner and Dream Big Wellness's Clinical Director, Katie Kapugi, MA, LMHC, ATR, their dedicated Board and Clinical Team, she continues to expand access to care for low-income and underserved communities and to create opportunities for high-quality art therapy and mental health trainings.
Bonnie’s Retreat Facilitation and Presenter Experience: 19 Retreats 2022 - 2025
1 Dream Big Wellness Retreats (Lead, Retreat, Facilitator, CE Presenter)
2 Casting for Recovery Retreats (Oncology Psychotherapist Facilitator)
3 Wellness Counseling Inc. Retreats & Trainings (Art Therapy CE Presenter)
4 Team Survivor Northwest (Art Therapy & Mental Health Presenter)
Katie Kapugi is a nationally registered art therapist and licensed mental health counselor with over eight years of experience specializing in chronic pain, medical trauma, complex trauma, nervous system challenges, and navigating adjustment and transition. She leans into personal and clinical experience with chronic illness to inform her practice. Katie is a founder, vice president, and clinical director of Dream Big Wellness, where she also serves as an art therapist.
Her expertise lies in mindfulness-based therapies and relaxation strategies, including training in biofeedback, polyvagal theory, breathwork, and autonomic nervous system regulation. Katie integrates trauma-informed care with art therapy, drawing on a deep well of theoretical knowledge, curiosity, and compassion to support those she works with.
Katie has worked extensively in nonprofit settings with people across all stages of life. Her experience includes roles in shelters, long-term care facilities, hospital settings, outpatient community mental health clinics, and school-based mental health programs. Internationally, she has contributed to arts in medicine programs in Rwanda and Guatemala, bringing creative healing to diverse communities.
As a retreat presenter, Katie has provided training in autonomic nervous system regulation and art therapy through Dream Big Wellness retreats for the past four years. Her work focuses on co-occurring medical and mental health challenges, anxiety, panic disorders, CPTSD, grief and loss, relationship dynamics, body-based trauma, identity transitions, and chronic illness and pain.
A lifelong artist, Katie grew up homeschooled by professional artists, which shaped her unique perspective on the transformative power of creativity for healing and self-expression. Her practice is trauma-informed, strengths-based, and deeply supportive, emphasizing the importance of relationships with oneself and others as a cornerstone of healing.
Katie brings a creative, compassionate, and holistic approach to her work.
Katie's Retreat Facilitation and Presenter Experience: 2017 - 2025
1 Dream Big Wellness Retreats (Organizer, Facilitator, CE Presenter)
2 Wellness Counseling Inc. Retreats & Trainings (Art Therapy CE Presenter)
3 Team Survivor Northwest (Art Therapy & Mental Health Presenter)
4 MS I'm Possible (Art Therapy Facilitator and Presenter)
5 National Pain Symposiums (Trainings for integrative care teams through Swedish Hospital on Biofeedback and Relaxation Strategies)
6 Washington Counselor Association Conference (Humanistic Assessment CE Training)
Dreaming New Zealand
Famous for its dramatic sandbars, swirling tidal patterns, and emerald estuary water, Awaroa is one of the park’s most striking landscapes. The inlet transforms completely with the tides, revealing sculpted sand formations at low tide.
This region is known for its intricate low-tide sand ridges and warm golden light. A hallmark of Golden Bay’s artistry, the texture-rich tidal flats reveal natural patterns shaped by wind, water, and the open bay.
One of the most accessible and beloved beaches in the park, Anchorage features calm turquoise water, a sweeping arc of soft sand, and native bush right to the shoreline. A frequent stop for walkers, kayakers, and water taxis.
A serene golden-sand cove tucked between native forest and calm turquoise waters, Apple Tree Bay is a classic Abel Tasman stopping point. Known for its sheltered shoreline, warm shallows, and panoramic coastal views, it’s a favorite lunch-and-swim spot for walkers and kayakers.
Marahau, the gateway to Abel Tasman National Park. Known for wide tidal flats, sparkling sunlight, and expansive coastal panoramas. Photos used with Permission by Ian Trafford Photography and local New Zealand friends
Frequently Asked Questions
Continuing Education, Yoga & Meditation, Eco-Therapy, and Art Therapy Experientials will be guided throughout the retreat.
CEUs: Continuing Education Units, will be offered for LMHC, LICSW, LMFTs, and Art Therapists. CEUs will be certified by a nationally recognized CEU governing body to fully count for your CEU requirements. We are currently in the development stage of our CEUs, but the area of focus will be: Eco Art Therapy, therapy for chronic illness (oncology, chronic pain, chronic illness umbrella), polyvagal theories, process painting, EMDR and art therapy. Dream Big Wellness has been offering CEUs for the past four years and has various areas of experience to share with you. More information regarding CEs will be posted soon.
Please consult with your tax professional to answer questions particular to your situation. In some cases aspects or the trip in entirety can be an expense write off. However, we can not answer definitively on this, and you must consult with a tax advisor.
- The entire Abel Tasman is 60km one way. We will be trekking 56km (35 miles) through the Abel Tasman Park
- Learn more information at
- A detailed packing list will be provided closer to the retreat date
- Our wonderful guiding company will store and help transfer some of our luggage from one place to another.
- All you will need for the actual trek/hiking part of the retreat is a backpack that can carry approximately 10-15lbs:
- Comfortable day backpack for your water, lunch, snacks, swimsuit, towel, change of clothes, sandals, journal.
- Toiletry items will be at all the accommodations
- Though the guiding company is helping us transfer luggage, there are places where they will be walking through water with your bag and on sandy beaches. Heavy rolling suitcases are not recommended. If you bring a large suit case, I recommend leaving it at our accommodation in Marahau and bringing a smaller bag you can carry your items for the 4 nights we’ll stay at Awaroa & Golden Bay.
Yes, click "reserve your spot today" to learn more
Past Retreat Testimonials
“The DBW retreat was truly a transformative experience! The ability to unplug,
participate in true self care, and learn from peers allowed me to reach a deeper
understanding of my own professional goals and set me up for many positive changes
that have taken place since. The retreat center is breathtaking, the food is delicious, and
the people are just wonderful - I can't recommend it enough.” -Retreat Participant
“Bonnie is knowledgeable, articulate and skilled in therapy interventions as evidenced by descriptions of her interventions in our meetings.”
– colleague, oncology social worker
“I am grateful for every hour I got to spend learning from you”
– Art Therapy Intern
“Bonnie’s expertise in program development has bar none made the Art Therapy program one of the best in the nation.”
– oncology colleague
“You assemble a team of superheroes” – Rachel Duncan, Financial Therapist & Board Chair
“You made the space feel safe from the very first day. You are very skilled in that area.”
– oncology patient
“Your heart-forward self is already a gift to our team”
– oncology social worker
“Dream Big Wellness helped me reconnect with myself in ways I didn’t think were possible. Their approach is gentle, intuitive, and deeply healing.” – DBW client
“I can’t say enough positive statements about Ms. Walchuk and the program she has been overseeing. Ms. Walchuk has a wonderful demeanor and works extremely well with other supportive care services staff. She is an excellent communicator, and is able to relay the needs of her patients to other providers in an effective manner. In addition, she demonstrated very good clinical knowledge and skills regarding the patients she cares for, and her patients find her empathic, caring, and clearly she is able to develop a strong and effective therapeutic relationship with them. Due to her hard work, clinical acumen, and empathy, she has in a very short time increased the productivity of her clinic such that it is getting booked out for a couple months at a time. She is clearly delivering a significant need to the oncologic arena and I expect that this demand will only increase over time.”
– oncology colleague