Matahui Road School best in NZ

Matahui Road School has been recognised by Outdoors New Zealand winning the Best Outdoor Education Programme Award for 2012.

Nine-time Coast to Coast winner, Steve Gurney and Outdoors New Zealand chairperson, Alex Brunt, hosted the awards in Wellington last Friday.

The national event recognises the highest levels of individual and organisational achievement in outdoor recreation, outdoor education and adventure tourism in New Zealand.

Principal Kate Stagg said it was an honour to be recognised for the 'gutsy' efforts of the teachers, staff, Board of Trustees, parents and students, in continuing to offer a quality, challenging, outdoor education programme that has evolved over the past 24 years.

"A huge thank you to our whole community - past and present," she said.

"You all shared in developing and supporting the best outdoor education programme in the country, a programme that develops well-rounded, well-grounded young people, able to confidently tackle life and all its challenges."

Students leave Matahui Road School having had exposure to a wide range of New Zealand outdoor environments and outdoor pursuits, she said.