The ICPA New Zealand Retreat
Aukland, New Zealand
September 7-11, 2026
Drs Marcia Schaffer, John Edwards, Jen Santos, Shannon Good, & Sarah Hogan
Set in the dramatic, breathtaking landscape where Tolkien’s Middle-earth came alive on screen, this WanderLearn retreat combines legendary adventure with deep professional connection and growth. Alongside Dr. John Edwards, Marcia Schaffer, and Jen Santos, Shannon Good, and Sarah Hogan, you’ll explore iconic LOTR filming sites, from the Shire at Hobbiton to the Misty Mountains while learning, networking, and experiencing unforgettable beauty of New Zealand.
Chiropractors, this is your chance to get 12 hours of CE in the stunning landscapes of the Lord of the Rings. And because we’ve timed it perfectly before the Australian Kids Summit, your Kids Summit ticket is included with your reservation, connecting two transformational events into one seamless adventure.
The Venue
Set on 40 hectares of rolling countryside overlooking the tranquil waters of Lake Karapiro, Lakeview Lodge is an exclusive, self-contained luxury retreat in the heart of Waikato. Expansive lake and mountain views, refined interiors, outdoor entertaining spaces, and complete privacy make it the perfect base for an elevated New Zealand experience.
Located just 20–25 minutes from the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set, guests can step directly into The Shire, visiting Bag End, the Party Tree, and the Green Dragon Inn from The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring and The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey.
Within easy reach, you’ll also find:
• The rolling Waikato farmland that inspired Middle-earth’s pastoral landscapes
• The dramatic limestone formations of the Waitomo Glowworm Caves (approx. 1 hour)
• Scenic lake walks and cycling trails directly from the property
• Cambridge’s boutique dining and artisan experiences
Your Hosts.
Host bios + images here.
What's Included.
We have taken care of every detail, so the moment you step onto the resort, everything is handled. Our retreats are meant to bring you peace of mind through our exceptional service. We only work with the best resorts and experience experts, so you can enjoy your trip knowing every detail is taken care of. Our retreats include some of the best local experiences, food, and accomodations.
Transfers
Accommodation
Transfers are not included, but we can easily arrange a group shuttle.
5 star luxury lodge accommodations.
Learning
Daily CE workshops on prenatal & pediatric care, lifestyle, and much more.
Adventure
Daily adventures offered at a wholesale group rate for a true build your own adventure.
Food
Welcome dinner & farewell dinner included along with a full daily breakfast.
Getting There
Fly into Auckland International Airport (AKL), New Zealand’s main international gateway. From there, Lakeview Lodge in the Waikato region is approximately a 2–2.5 hour scenic drive south (car rentals are available at the airport), with private group transfers available upon request. The lodge is located near Cambridge and Lake Karapiro, just 20–25 minutes from the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set. We recommend arriving one day early if traveling internationally to rest and adjust before the retreat begins.
Sample Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival
Arrive into Auckland (AKL) and transfer to Lakeview Lodge.
Settle in and enjoy the peaceful countryside overlooking Lake Karapiro.
6:00 PM – Welcome cocktails on the terrace
7:00 PM – Group dinner
Introductions, intention setting, and retreat overview
Day 2: The Shire Experience
7:30 AM – Optional lakeside walk or quiet morning reflection
8:30 AM – Breakfast
10:00 AM – Private experience at the
Hobbiton Movie Set
Guided tour of The Shire, Bag End, and The Green Dragon Inn
1:00 PM – Lunch at The Green Dragon
3:00 PM – Return to the lodge
Free time to relax, explore the property, or enjoy the lake
6:30 PM – Group dinner at the lodge
Day 3: Nature + Exploration
7:30 AM – Optional morning movement or meditation
8:30 AM – Breakfast
10:00 AM – Scenic excursion to the
Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Boat ride beneath thousands of glowworms
1:30 PM – Countryside lunch in Cambridge
3:00 PM – Explore Cambridge boutique shops + café culture
6:30 PM – Group dinner
Day 4: Adventure + Integration
7:30 AM – Lakeside walk or optional cycling along Lake Karapiro trails
8:30 AM – Breakfast
10:00 AM – Free time or optional experiences:
• Scenic helicopter flight over Waikato farmland
• Farm-to-table culinary experience
• Spa treatments nearby
1:00 PM – Lunch
3:00 PM – Closing session and integration gathering
6:30 PM – Farewell dinner overlooking the lake
Day 5: Departure
8:00 AM – Breakfast
9:00 AM – Departures to Auckland Airport then to Kids Summit
Are you ready?
Join new friends from all over the world in paradise. Our retreats sell out quickly, save your spot today.
Prices starting at $2950/person.