Positive Women Inc. was proud to host the 2025 HIV Women’s Retreat, a cherished annual gathering which brings together women living with HIV from across Aotearoa. This year, 42 women attended, representing a wide range of ages, cultures, and life experiences, all coming together in a confidential, nurturing, and empowering environment.
The retreat provides something truly rare: a space designed by and for women living with HIV, offering moments of rest, learning, laughter, reflection, and deep connection away from the pressures of daily life.
The programme offered a rich combination of workshops, wellness activities, creative sessions, and opportunities for open conversation. Women were invited to choose what felt right for them, creating a gentle and supportive rhythm to the weekend.
Throughout the weekend, women shared meals, stories, quiet moments, and new friendships, reminding us how transformational community can be.
Retreat evaluations show overwhelmingly positive experiences, with women reporting significant emotional, social, and personal benefits.
Key evaluation findings:
- 100% of attendees Strongly Agree or Agree they felt strengthened and supported by being with other women living with HIV.
- 94% of attendees Strongly Agree or Agree they left the retreat with a more positive attitude about themselves.
- 97% of attendees Strongly Agree or Agree they felt more socially connected.
- 91% of attendees Strongly Agree or Agree their self-esteem improved as a result of the retreat.
- 97% of attendees Strongly Agree or Agree the retreat is important to them.
- 94% of attendees were Very Satisfied or Satisfied with the workshop content.
- 94% of attendees were Very Satisfied or Satisfied with the organisation and delivery of the retreat.
These results highlight how vital the retreat is for wellbeing, confidence, and reducing isolation.
Participant comments included:
- “It was wonderful and enjoyable… I felt loved, cared for, and very comfortable.”
- “Super awesome this year. Lots of ‘positive’ vibes.”
- “It’s great seeing old friends and meeting new. This is an important opportunity to regroup.”
- “Empowered, blessed, gratitude, powerful, mana enhancing.”
- “Retreat helped me feel loved unconditionally… made me aware of the strength I have.”
- “A wonderful time to reconnect and reflect.”
Women also shared thoughtful suggestions for future retreats, including more craft sessions, additional Māori-focused workshops, and gentle reminders around phone etiquette to maintain the reflective environment. Feedback helps Positive Women Inc. continue to evolve the retreat to meet the needs of our diverse community.
The retreat remains one of the most treasured events for women living with HIV, an opportunity to step away, recharge, share openly, and feel deeply understood. As one woman wrote:
“I am so lucky to have met these amazing people that I can relate to without being judged.”
Positive Women Inc. extends heartfelt thanks to all facilitators, volunteers, supporters, and the women who attended with openness and courage. Together, we created another unforgettable weekend of healing, learning, laughter, and connection.
Through unity comes strength — Tū kahikatea i te uru.
