Bringing bookish people together. In real life and online.
Imagine FINALLY reading your favourite books without distractions.
Self-care isn’t just doing yoga, drinking healthy smoothies or journaling.
Sometimes, it’s about making time for yourself to get stuck into a book, surrounded by people just like you.
AS SEEN IN
Most people pack their holidays full of sightseeing, activities, and alarms.
Us readers? We’re dreaming of slow mornings, long chapters, belly-laugh conversations with fellow book lovers, and food so good it deserves a paragraph of its own.
A reading retreat is a getaway for book lovers, like you and me.
We’re all juggling a million things and secretly wishing we had more time to read instead of… folding laundry.
A reading retreat is an escape from all that: A weekend to slow down in a stunning setting, chat about your favourite reads with fellow book nerds, and indulge in authentic Italian food—right here in New Zealand.
For a whole weekend, there are no obligations and you can keep yourself busy with books (see what I did there? 😉) .
What is a reading retreat?
Take a peek inside our last retreat!
When most of your life revolves around looking after others, let me look after you.
Hi, I’m Hanna!
Originally from the north of Italy, I now live on the beautiful Kāpiti Coast of New Zealand.
Busy With Books was born out of a simple idea: what if reading could be the centrepiece of connection, self-care, and joy?
Through in-person reading retreats and a cosy online book club, I’m creating spaces where book lovers can slow down, switch off, and finally read without interruption - or guilt.
And because I grew up in an Italian family where food was love, you’ll always find a good meal (or a delicious recipe) as part of the experience ❤️
What our guests are saying:
When was the last time you did something just because it made you feel good?
Not because it was productive. Not because it ticked a box.
But simply because you wanted to curl up with a book, dream of fictional crushes, and feel completely at ease in your own skin?
What’s included:
Two nights of luxe living in boutique accommodation that’s as cosy as your favourite novel (and twice as hard to leave).
Authentic Italian food, handmade with love from fresh, locally-sourced ingredients - just like Nonna would, if she hosted book retreats (I am Nonna 😅).
Snackable treats designed to be enjoyed one-handed (because the other should never have to leave your page).
Fun non-alcoholic drinks - you’re welcome to bring your own alcoholic drinks to enjoy with dinner.
Welcome gifts curated for book lovers
The chance to meet fellow readers who get it and might just become lifelong book besties.
3 months of membership for BWB book club
…and a few other (literary) surprises!
Wait, there’s more.
Book fair
Swap, trade, and share your favourite reads with others at our own little book fair. Find hidden gems, make recommendations, and get some fresh books for free (‘cause new books are expensive).
Blind date with a book
Choose a book based on a brief description without knowing the title, author, or plot beforehand. It’s a great way to discover new books and step outside your comfort zone!
Device sitting service
Let me look after your phone so you can keep distractions (*uhm TikTok*) to a minimum. Enjoy a temporary break from the digital world knowing your device is safe and secure.
Can’t come to a retreat?
Join our online book club instead!
Each month, we meet on Zoom for a fun, relaxed book discussion, and you get access to a private Slack community where the bookish chat never stops.
Oh, and because books and food just belong together, you also get a curated Italian recipe each month to pair with your read - easy, delicious, no weird speciality ingredients required.
Your new bookish home.
You want to discover amazing books that aren’t everywhere. You’re tired of overhyped books that don’t live up to your expectations.
Join a book club that’s actually fun, low pressure and feels like you’ve finally found your people.
LET’S TALK BOOKS OVER ON INSTA!
