A Mythic Men’s Leadership Pilgrimage in Aotearoa New Zealand

7 days / April 8-15 2026

Answer the call.

There is a rising hunger in the hearts of men - a call to leadership rooted in depth rather than dominance. Alignment, not conflict. Purpose, courage, and love, rather than hollow ambition.

This is your invitation to join a rare fellowship: a 7-day mythic leadership journey with a curated group of 9 to 12 participants, across the wild landscapes of Aotearoa New Zealand, guided by seasoned facilitators, partly inspired by the timeless arc of Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings.

The Journey

We will travel through three powerful phases:

FELLOWSHIP

Forging trust, clarifying personal purpose, and aligning with the collective mission.

DESCENT

Confronting inner shadows, testing courage, and crossing thresholds of transformation.

RETURN

Integrating hard-won insights, anchoring vision, and re-entering the world with clarity and intention.

You will hike ancient trails, paddle wild rivers, confront challenge and beauty and share deep circles of reflection, laughter, and transformation.

  • Men ready to step into authentic, courageous leadership — in life, work, and the world.

  • Men willing to face both their gifts and their shadows with honesty.

  • Men seeking true fellowship — not surface connection, but shared purpose and depth.

  • Men inspired by myth, story, and nature as pathways to transformation.

We are intentionally curating a group of 12 committed participants from diverse backgrounds, ages 30–65, who are ready to walk this path together.

Who is this for?

What You’ll Experience

  • Guided adventures in the stunning landscapes of Glenorchy, Fiordland and Milford Sound

  • A full day paddling journey on the Dart River

  • A multi-day hike through the Greenstone & Caples Conservation Area, including a solo vision quest night under the stars

  • An unforgettable overnight cruise aboard the Fiordland Jewel

  • Deep council circles, solo reflection, and community celebration

  • Post-retreat integration and alumni fellowship

  • Expert facilitation by a team of experienced guides:

The Fellowship awaits….

“All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.” - Gandalf, The Lord of the Rings

This is more than a retreat. It’s a crossing. And, most importantly, a commitment to a shift to leadership that is closer to the heart.

Will you answer the call?

Investment

*** PRICING UPDATE ***

We have been working with our partners in New Zealand and are able to offer a discounted rate of $6,500 USD for every participant (excluding international flights & internal flights to/from Queenstown, New Zealand).

This saving is contingent on a minimum of 9 participants and initial deposits of $2,500 USD paid by September 15 to confirm accommodation and activity bookings.

RETURN TO THE HEART is a curated, immersive, signature experience. Cost includes all accommodations, meals, transport within New Zealand, guided activities, equipment, materials, integration support and membership of the Ring Alumni Network.

If you are interested in joining us, please click the link below to register.

Payment terms:

  • $2,500 USD deposit required by September 15 2025 to confirm your place.

  • Second instalment of $2,000 USD due by November 30 2025.

  • Final balance due before end of February 2026.

Your quest is waiting.