Queenstown Writing Retreat

18 -22 March, 2026

Ground your creativity, hone your craft and connect with authors by taking time away and creating space.

Ignite Your Passion. Unleash Your Purpose.

Something magical happens when writers get together. The energy is palpable, the creativity contagious, and the words flow effortlessly. It's the feeling that writers chase after, a moment where everything clicks and their passion for writing is ignited.

The intention for this retreat is to create a space for you to ignite your passion and tap into your creativity. You will improve your craft and gain clarity as writers through the many workshops, group discussions and writing exercises held over the four days.

This retreat has been designed for any level, whether beginner or experienced; Sarah will help you unlock your full potential and find your voice in the literary world. There will be the opportunity to connect with other like-minded individuals who share your love for writing and learn from each other's unique perspectives.

But it's not all just about writing. Sarah understands that in order to produce great work, one must take care of themselves both physically and mentally. That's why she has included activities such as nature walks to help participants relax and recharge. And all lunches are included so you can focus on your craft without worrying about cooking or cleaning.

During the retreat, Sarah will also provide personalised coaching and feedback for each participant. This will help you improve your writing skills and find your personal style. With her years of experience in the industry and genuine passion for helping writers succeed, you'll be in good hands.

We also have special guests joining us either virtually or in person, so you can learn from other industry professions.

The Retreat Program

Wednesday 18 March

  • Check in to your accomodation

  • 7pm Welcome dinner (meals and drinks not included)

  • Get to know each other

Thursday 19 March

9am - 5pm

  • Workshop with Sarah

  • In-person workshop with Leeanna Morgan

  • Lunch

  • 1:1s and co-working time

Friday 20 March

9am - 5pm

  • Virtual workshop with Steffanie Holmes

  • Lunch

  • Free time to write or spend on your own

Saturday 21 March

9am - 5pm

  • Virtual workshop with Hachette Publisher Sophie Hamley

  • Hot Seats

  • Lunch

  • 1:1s and co-working time

Sunday 22 March

9am - 3pm

  • 1:1s and coworking time

  • Lunch

  • Farewell and Closing circle

  • Retreat ends at 3pm

MEET your host

FOUNDER & CEO, serenade publishing

Hey, I'm Sarah!

Author of 9 Bestselling novels

Certified Editor

Expert Book Coach

I'm a bestselling and award winning fiction author.

For years, I devoured every book, downloaded all the freebies, and completed countless courses. However, it wasn't until I combined all that knowledge and poured it into my novel that I soared to the top of the bestseller lists.

Serenade Publishing was born with a mission to empower and uplift fellow creatives. Whether you dream of turning your writing into a career, cherishing it as a beloved hobby, or leaving a lasting legacy for your loved ones, we're here to guide and support you every step of the way. Together, let's unleash the power of your imagination! I can’t wait to help you achieve your publishing dreams!

With Special Guest Presenters:

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Steffanie Holmes (Steff Green) - Appearing virtually

I'm the USA Today bestselling author of kooky, spooky romance novels. Born in New Zealand and raised on a steady diet of metal and out-of-print archaeology books, I’m now a novelist, hiker, mead-brewer, cat-wrangler, and professional iron maiden.

Oh yeah... and I'm legally blind.

My Cantankerous Drummer Husband (CDH for short) and I live in an off-grid home we designed and built ourselves on 4 acres of paradise overlooking the rugged Kaipara coastline, with our four cats, a menagerie of barnyard animals, and our medieval sword collection.

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Leeanna Morgan - Appearing in-person

Leeanna Morgan is a USA Today bestselling author. She has published fifty women’s fiction and contemporary romance novels set in Montana.

As a full-time indie-author, she enjoys the creative and business side of writing. Sharing what she has learned to help other writers is one of the things that adds value to her life as an author.

When she’s not writing, Leeanna enjoys walking on the beach and spending time with her family in her hometown in New Zealand's North Island.

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Sophie Hamley - Appearing virtually

Sophie Hamley has worked as a bookseller, editor, writer, content producer and web producer. She was a literary agent at Cameron’s Management from 2006 until 2014 and is a past President of the Australian Literary Agents’ Association.

She is a publisher at Hachette Australia, publishing in a range of non-fiction genres including biography, true crime, history, memoir, politics and science, and also some fiction.

Reviews from past retreats

HEAR ESTELLE'S STORY

I realised I am creative and I am a writer! I am confident and equipped with everything I need now!

~ Estelle

HEAR SAMANTHA'S STORY

Sarah breaks it down into small, manageable sizes of information so there is no overwhelm!

~ Samantha

Is this retreat right for me?

This is for you if you:

  • Have started writing a book but are not sure how to finish it

  • Feel overwhelmed by the writing process and need guidance

  • Want a supportive community to help you stay accountable and motivated

  • Are ready to take your writing to the next level

  • Would love some gentle accountability to keep you on track

  • Are willing to invest in premium mentoring and instruction

    • If any of these statements resonate with you, then this retreat is perfect for you. That's why we've created this retreat - to offer guidance, motivation, and accountability in a welcoming community of fellow writers.

      Our goal is to provide a space where writers can come together, learn from each other, and ultimately complete their book projects. We understand that writing can be a daunting task, especially if you're not sure how to finish or don't have the support system you need.

      But this isn't just about the writing process. We also want to create a space for writers to recharge and relax, because let's face it - sometimes writer's block hits hard and a change of scenery can do wonders. That's why our retreat will take place in a beautiful, peaceful location where you can focus on your writing without distractions.

      So if you're ready to take your writing to the next level, join us at our upcoming retreat. And if you could use some gentle accountability to keep you on track, our community will be there for you every step of the way. Let's make this year the one where you finally finish that book and become a published author.

    This is not for you if you:

    ❌ Want me to write your novel for you

    ❌ Are not committed to improving your writing skills

    ❌ Don’t believe in connecting with your people

    ❌ Are not committed to focusing on your writing

  • Writing Workshops

    We have daily writing workshops to master the art of crafting compelling stories. Learn how to hook your readers, develop captivating plots and settings, create memorable characters, infuse emotion into your writing, craft strong scenes, workshop your blurb and synopsis, and add tension to every page.

  • Expert Tutoring

    Expert tutoring from a multi-published, bestselling author and experienced teacher, Sarah Williams. As founder of Serenade Publishing she has many years experience and knowledge of the publishing industry.

  • Special Guest Masterclasses

    Bestselling New Zealand authors Leanna Morgan (in person) and Steffanie Holmes (virtual appearance) will be teaching special masterclasses exclusively for attendees that includes Q&A time.

    Hachette Publisher, Sophie Hamley will be teaching a virtual masterclass on pitching and submitting your novel to publishers and agents. Q&A time also included.

  • Writing Time

    You can enjoy dedicated writing time each day or whenever you prefer to write instead of attending a workshop. This is your time to focus on your writing and make progress on your projects.

  • Time to Explore

    Take a break and explore scenic Queenstown. Take a jetboat ride, bungee jump or take in the amazing views of The Remarkables, Cecil Peak, Walter Peak and Ben Lomond.

Join Us For Only $1,499!

Price is in Australian Dollars (AUD).

Please check exchange rate before booking from outside Australia.

Full Includions:

  • Lifetime access to the Fiction Writing Academy.

    A step-by-step online program that teaches you how to plan, write, and finish a strong first-draft novel with lifetime access to all lessons and tools.

  • Expert tutoring from a bestselling author, editor and book coach.

  • Guest masterclasses taught by Leanne Morgan, Steffanie Holmes and Sophie Hamley.

  • Learn to create a writing routine.

  • Learn how to overcome writer's block and overwhelm.

  • Hotseats to discuss your project with the group.

  • Networking with other writers.

  • Lunch, coffee and tea daily

  • Welcome dinner (meals and drinks not included)

  • Heaps of time to work on your writing.

  • Leave with a sense of purpose moving forward.

What are you waiting for?

RETREAT EXCLUSIVE:

The Fiction Writing Academy Exclusive Retreat Bonus

($997 Value)

LET'S FINALLY GET YOUR BOOK WRITTEN

Fiction Writing Academy has everything you need to write a bestselling book:

  • Step-by-step guidance on how to plan, outline, and write a high-quality first draft

  • 8 easy-to-follow modules, each based on one of the essential components of a writer’s education

  • Membership to a private course website so you can access all the materials anytime, anywhere

Take the guesswork out of writing and finally finish your novel!

Don't Pay $997

Get this FREE with your Retreat Booking

Maybe You're Thinking ...

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the retreat held?

Inside a private meeting room at the Novoltel Lakeside Resort in central Queenstown.

Is accomodation included?

No, however there are many options for accomodation in Queenstown to suit your budget and needs.

Do I need to be an experienced writer?

Not at all. Whether you're an experienced writer or someone who's brand new to the craft, Sarah's sessions will have you writing with greater authenticity and confidence.

How is the retreat structured?

Each day there will be informative workshops taught by bestselling author, Sarah Williams and a special guest presenters. You will also have plenty of time to write, sightsee, get a massage, meditate or whatever else you'd like to do.

What happens if I can't attend?

All payments are non-refundable so we recommend taking out travel insurance as soon as you pay the deposit.

Here’s what previous retreat participants have to say:

Heather learned so much

I learned so much - Sarah was a wonderful, helpful, knowledgeable & supportive facilitator & mentor. I met a great group of fellow writers I feel I have met some wonderful new friends!

Sally reclaimed her time

I have strategies in place now so I can utlilse my time better and make writing a priority.

Joanna found Peace within

I finally learned how to listen to my creativity and allow the words to flow. I'm excited about my writing again!

Still have questions?

have further questions about the retreat?

I want to make sure you have all of the info you need.

I've opened up some time on my calendar to meet with you 1:1 and answer any questions you have.

By the end of the call, you'll know if joining me on the retreat is the right place for you!

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