Our Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award students embraced the challenge of their Easter Camp in the rugged beauty of the Central Plateau.
Over four days, students navigated scoria flats to Whakapapiti Hut, tackled extended routes and river crossings, built bivvies, and explored the historic Ohakune Old Coach Road. Carrying all their own gear, they developed practical bushcraft skills, from navigation and route planning to campsite setup and cooking, while learning to adapt to changing weather and terrain.
Working in mixed-experience teams, students supported one another through shared decision-making, leadership rotation, and problem-solving. Alongside the physical challenge, they also contributed to environmental stewardship, re-baiting predator traps and caring for huts and surrounding native bush.
Experiences like this build far more than outdoor skills—they foster resilience, confidence, teamwork, and a deep respect for the natural environment.
As the highest level of the Award, Gold recognises exceptional commitment and achievement. 2024 graduate Tim Gillies-Smith recently attended the Gold Award Ceremony in Auckland after completing Bronze, Silver, and Gold. For his Residential Project, Tim spent six days exploring the Amalfi Coast, taking on iconic hikes including Mount Vesuvius and the Sentiero degli Dei—a journey that reflects the adventure, resilience, and personal growth at the heart of the Award.