NZ Weekend Writing Retreat

A Long Weekend for You and Your Writing - Edit Co. Writing Retreat Escape to beautiful Whangapoua on the Coromandel Peninsula this Labour Weekend for a relaxing and productive writing retreat, designed to give writers the time, space and encouragement to focus on their manuscripts. Hosted by Helen Thornton-Gussy of Edit Co., this intimate four-day retreat runs from 23–26 October 2026 and offers the perfect opportunity to step away from everyday distractions and immerse yourself in writing alongside a small group of like-minded people. The weekend combines dedicated writing time with practical workshops, group discussions and personalised one-to-one support. There’s also plenty of opportunity to unwind, enjoy the beautiful surroundings and connect with fellow writers. What’s Included Throughout the retreat, participants will enjoy:

• Dedicated, uninterrupted time to work on their manuscripts
• Workshops and discussions designed to develop and support their writing
• Individual one-to-one guidance throughout the weekend
• Opportunities to connect with other writers and share a love of books and storytelling
• Comfortable accommodation and meals for the duration of the retreat
• Plenty of coffee, tea and snacks to keep the creativity flowing

With just three guest places available, the retreat offers a welcoming, supportive environment where every writer can receive individual attention. The Weekend Friday 23 October – Monday 26 October 2026 Whangapoua, Coromandel Peninsula Guests arrive on Friday afternoon or evening, with time to settle in and get acquainted before the weekend begins. Saturday and Sunday offer a balance of focused writing sessions, workshops, discussions and individual guidance, with downtime built into the programme. There’s also time to relax and enjoy the peaceful Coromandel surroundings. The retreat concludes on Monday morning with a final opportunity to write, reflect on progress and develop a plan for maintaining momentum after returning home. The Accommodation Nestled on a ridge just minutes from Whangapoua, the retreat takes place in a beautiful single-level, four-bedroom home with stunning views across to Matarangi. With comfortable shared spaces and peaceful places to write or relax, the property provides an inspiring setting for a creative getaway. Unlike larger writing events, this retreat is deliberately limited to three guests, creating a more personal and relaxed experience with plenty of opportunity for individual support. Who Is It For? The retreat welcomes writers at different stages of their creative journeys, whether they're tackling a first draft, refining an existing manuscript or looking to rediscover their writing momentum. There's no minimum word count or requirement to be at a particular stage of the writing process. Participants simply need a writing project they'd like to dedicate time to, along with a willingness to immerse themselves in a supportive creative environment. About the Organiser – Edit Co. The retreat is hosted by Helen Thornton-Gussy, the founder of Edit Co., a professional editing and book coaching business dedicated to helping writers develop, refine and strengthen their manuscripts. With more than nine years of experience, Helen works with fiction and non-fiction authors, offering services including developmental editing, manuscript assessments, line editing, copyediting, proofreading and personalised book coaching. She holds a Certificate in Editing and Proofreading recognised by the International Approval and Registration Centre (IARC). Her experience also includes working as a beta and omega reader on books published through Grim Oak Press, involving authors such as Terry Brooks, Tad Williams, Megan Lindholm and David Eddings. Alongside her editorial services, Helen organises writing retreats in New Zealand and Bali, bringing writers together in inspiring locations where they can focus on their creative projects away from everyday demands. Through Edit Co., Helen aims to provide practical guidance, constructive feedback and encouragement, helping writers build confidence, overcome challenges and make meaningful progress with their manuscripts. Retreat Details Dates: 23–26 October 2026 Location: Whangapoua, Coromandel Peninsula Availability: 3 guest places Price: NZD $595 per person The price includes accommodation, meals, workshops and personalised one-to-one writing support. Travel to and from Whangapoua is not included, although transport options can be discussed with the organiser. Book Your Place With only three places available, this Labour Weekend retreat offers a wonderful opportunity to dedicate four days to writing in a beautiful coastal setting, supported by an experienced editor and surrounded by fellow writers. For more information or to secure a place, visit Edit Co. or explore the Labour Weekend Writing Retreat.