People can drop in or out. The suggested contribution for each session is $12, but people give whatever they can afford. There are usually 12-15 people, some teaching, a bit of discussion and a couple of meditations.
"Many people are just attracted by the idea of meditation. It's good for you," Gen Kelsang said.
Her Buddhism is Kadampa, brought to the western world by Tibetan Geshe Kelsang who spent 17 years alone in a hut in north India. It's a practical form of Buddhism, and other classes are given for sick, needy and addicted people.
Gen Kelsang helps with online classes, and gives in-person classes in Palmerston North, Levin, Dannevirke and Whanganui. She's 71 and her Buddhist name, Demo, means "blissful one".
She does two hours of study a day, and meditates as well as teaching. Once a year she travels to England to meet others, learn more and sit an exam. She gets "a tiny stipend" - and is otherwise unpaid.
"For an old girl it's quite a programme. I think people just think I sit around feeling blissful," she said.
She felt drawn to Buddhism as an adult. It accorded with her own philosophy and she read about it.
Living and working in Cambodia and Nepal, she was inspired by the delightful monks she saw most days and she asked them what their secret was. But it was a young New Zealander giving classes in Wellington who started giving her answers.
When her partner died and she got cancer she was without some of her usual supports. Buddhism helped get her through the hard times.
In 2004 she took the plunge in a simple ceremony with 55 others - hair cut off, clothing changed, name changed. Her mind is now more peaceful and tranquilly directed - essential for her teaching work.
"You have to be putting in the practise yourself," she said.
For more information, see www.meditateinpalmerstonnorth.org.
