What to pack for a solo retreat

Three nights in the forest, with an outdoor kitchen, a cast iron bath and no shops nearby. The closest supermarket is Woolworths in Dargaville, so stock up there on your way in. This list covers what to bring so you don't need to leave until you're ready to.

Clothing

• Layers for changing weather, including something warm for evenings

• Rain jacket

• Walking shoes that can handle mud

• Sleepwear, underwear and socks

• Hat and sunglasses

Toiletries

• Toothbrush and toothpaste

• Shampoo and conditioner (handmade soap is provided)

• Hairbrush or comb

• Moisturiser, sunscreen, lip balm

• Personal hygiene products

Health

• Prescription medications and any medical supplies

Food for three days
Your kitchen has a hob, a Weber BBQ and a chilly bin for keeping food cold. We supply salt, pepper, olive oil, coffee with a plunger, tea, marshmallows and popcorn.

Keeping things cold: freeze what you plan to eat on the last day, such as meat or curry, and pack it at the bottom of the chilly bin. It works as extra ice and thaws in time. Frozen water bottles do the same job.

Easy meals: a curry or dahl from your favourite Indian restaurant, frozen flat to reheat on the hob; fresh pasta and a jar of good sauce; soup; eggs and sourdough.

Antipasto: salami, prosciutto, cheeses, olives, marinated artichokes, hummus or pesto, crackers, fruit, nuts, dark chocolate.

For the BBQ: sausages, lamb chops, steak or chicken thighs; halloumi, mushrooms, capsicum, corn and courgette; fish or prawns for the first night; flatbreads or naan to warm on the grill; foil.

Breakfast: muesli or granola, milk, yoghurt, fruit, bacon, bread.

Also worth bringing: butter and something good to drink.

Things to do

• Journal and pens

• Books or an e-reader

• Sketchbook or paints

• A musical instrument, if you play

• Binoculars for birds

• Camera

Technology

• Phone and charger

• Headphones

• Head torch for walking after dark

• We can supply a portable power pack, just ask