Karma Kagyu Thigsum Chokhorling (or Karma Choeling Buddhist Monastery) is a study, practice and retreat centre in the Karma Kagyu tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. Established in 1980 by HH 16th Gyalwang Karmapa; Rung Jung Rigpe Dorje, it is the New Zealand seat of HH 17th Gyalwang Karmapa; Orgyen Trinley Dorje, and is administered by the New Zealand Karma Kagyu Trust.  

Karma Choeling and the New Zealand Karma Kagyu Trust exist to make available to New Zealanders, the teachings and blessings of the Karma Kagyu Lineage. The temple contains the holy texts of the Kangyur and Tengyur.

Karma Choeling occupies 20 ha (50 acres) of regenerating bush land near Dairy Flat, between Albany and Orewa in North Auckland and features a traditional Tibetan style temple, eight stupas, and a 7m Buddha Statue, as well as residential and retreat huts.

Casual visitors are welcome during the day. For Monastery OPENING TIMES txt Bruce 021 227 3881

The Shakyamuni Buddha Statue was built by many kiwi volunteers under the guidance of the resident teachers, Venerable Lama Samten and Venerable Lama Shedrup, to fulfill the wishes of His Holiness the 16th Karmapa, Rangjung Rigpe Dorje. The eyes were opened in 1992 and it was consecrated by His Holiness 14th Dalai Lama and subsequently blessed by many high lamas including His Holiness Sakya Trizin, head of the Sakya lineage.  At 25 ft tall, it is the largest Buddha Statue in the southern hemisphere.

Eight Stupas or Chortens commissioned by various Buddhist students, and built by volunteers in the traditional style under the guidance of Venerable Lama Karma Samten and Venerable Lama Karma Shedrup. They symbolize the mind of the Buddha and  are dedicated to peace and harmony throughout the world. We have a major project underway where the stupas are currently being enclosed by walls and gates, and their surroundings landscaped and stabilised. More details at kcnzstupas.org.

The Buddha Statue, temple and Stupas are representations of the body, speech and mind of the Buddha and accomplish the wishes of HH 16th Gyalwang Karmapa: Rung Jung Rigpe Dorje

JOIN OUR MAILING LIST

To stay up to date with all that is happening at the Karma Choeling Buddhist Monastery, enter your email address in the below subscribe box. We will update you with upcoming courses, events at the Monastery and additional information from time to time.