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5 Day Short Course

The Story of
God in Aotearoa

Next Intake
TBC
Course Length
5 Days
Pricing
Online / In Person
Enroll Now

28th April – 2nd May 2026

Program Outline

God has been at work in our nation. Come and hear how Jesus has been weaving Himself through the history of this nation and into today. We are privileged to have Dr. Alistair Reese, along with Bradford Haami take us through ‘The story of God in Aotearoa’. 

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.

Karaka bay
Karaka Bay
A Space for Spiritual Renewal

Why Attend?

Step away from the noise and immerse yourself in The Story of God in Aotearoa course at Orama, Karaka Bay. Held at Orama, our discipleship school in an established Christian community in a breathtaking natural environment. It’s the special sauce that provides such a unique opportunity to reconnect with God amidst breathtaking natural beauty.

lodge
lodge
Deepen Your Faith

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.

sandwhiches
baking
Fresh & Delicious

Chef Prepared Meals

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.

accomodation
accomodation
Rest Well, Stay Refreshed

Comfortable Accomodation

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.

rogaining
Karaka Bay
Wild Beauty

Surrounded by Stunning Scenery

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.

Event Speakers

Reconciliation Focus

Dr. Alistair Reese

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. 

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Cultural Communicator

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. 

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Exclusive Experiences

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.

Karaka Bay
lodge
Karaka Bay
Orama Academy
bible study

Session Times

Session One

8:30am – 10:30AM NZT

TBC

Session Two

11:00am – 1:00pM NZT

TBC

Session Three

8:30am – 10:30AM NZT

TBC

Session Four

11:00am – 1:00pM NZT

TBC

Session Five

8:30am – 10:30AM NZT

TBC

Session Six

11:00am – 1:00pM NZT

TBC

Session Seven

8:30am – 10:30AM NZT

TBC

Session Eight

11:00am – 1:00pM NZT

TBC

Session Nine

8:30am – 10:30AM NZT

TBC

Our Story

Daily Schedule

The Story of God in Aotearoa 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.

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

Morning Session

Dive into the morning’s teaching in the Orama Academy 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

Midday Session

Continue the exploration of how faith has shaped New Zealand’s history during this engaging session in the Orama Academy 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 – 3:00pm

Community Contribution

Participate in meaningful activities that contribute to the retreat environment, fostering a sense of purpose and connection with the Orama community.

3:00 – 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.

Our Story

Course Comparison

Online
In Person

Five Day Schedule

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.
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

All participants receive course materials including readings, guided reflections, and access to online resources.
All participants receive course materials including readings, guided reflections, and access to online resources.

Post-Course Support

Ongoing support is available for both course versions.
Ongoing support is available for both course versions.

Immersive Retreat Environment

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.
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 Access to Course Leaders

In-person engagement and kōrero with Bradford Haami and Dr. Alistair Reese throughout the week.
In-person engagement and kōrero with Bradford Haami and Dr. Alistair Reese throughout the week.

Experiential Learning Activities

Hands-on, collaborative exercises, prayer sessions, and outdoor activities unique to Orama’s setting.
Hands-on, collaborative exercises, prayer sessions, and outdoor activities unique to Orama’s setting.

Community Building

Live, shared experiences and time together help foster deeper connections and relationships with fellow participants.
Live, shared experiences and time together help foster deeper connections and relationships with fellow participants.

Meals Provided

Delicious, nourishing meals prepared by Orama’s talented chefs are included in your stay.
Delicious, nourishing meals prepared by Orama’s talented chefs are included in your stay.

Creative Reflection Opportunities

Art supplies and access to the Woolshed Art Studio give space to express what you’re learning through creativity.
Art supplies and access to the Woolshed Art Studio give space to express what you’re learning through creativity.

Onsite Accommodation

Comfortable, single-room accommodation with shared facilities is available on campus for the duration of the course.
Art supplies and access to the Woolshed Art Studio give space to express what you’re learning through creativity.

Airport Pickup

Pick-up is available from the Great Barrier Island airport to make your journey to Orama simple and stress-free.
Pick-up is available from the Great Barrier Island airport to make your journey to Orama simple and stress-free.

Pricing

$299

$1550