Hawke's Bay's young student leaders push their limits at outdoor adventure school

Hastings Girls High School student, Olivia Mairs (Back Left) with Gracy Singh (Front Left), Ben Randlle, and Abodai Antonio on the 'Kaweka' Outward Bound Course.

The "Kaweka" Outward Bound Course was more than a trip for Hastings Girls' High School student Olivia Mairs. It was a life-changing experience.

"Outward Bound is a place that helps develop your whole being – mentally, emotionally, physically and socially."

For 21 days, she, along with 13 other students from Hawke's Bay, got to swim before sunrise, traverse high ropes, climb rock faces while blindfolded and summit mountains in Queen Charlotte Sound.

"We were put in some really challenging situations, ones where you have no choice but to keep going. It wasn't until then that I realised how tough I really am and how much mental power I have," Mairs said.

The students, from eight Hawke's Bay schools – Flaxmere College, Hastings Boys' High School, Hastings Girls' High School, Hukarere Girls' College, Karamu High School, Te Aute College, Wairoa College and William Colenso College - were selected for their leadership and commitment at school.

Outward Bound Funds Development Manager Karla Paotonu said during their time on the course, the students learnt to build courage and resilience and experience success as a member of a team, identify their own values, develop an appreciation for the natural environment and experience being of service".

Flaxmere College principal, Louise Anaru said often her students returned "almost unrecognisable".

"Shy, reserved students are suddenly busting to tell anyone and everyone about their experience. Students who may have struggled to get to school on time continue to be early risers and to exercise of their own free will... They realise what a big world awaits them and are excited to go further. "

Since 2013, 36 students from the school had gone on an Outward Bound Course.

"They have had their confidence strengthened and have found that they can achieve anything they put their mind to.

"We are so proud of our students achieving excellence at school and believe opportunities such as these position them well to do so."

Fundraising is an important part of the course and is still an ongoing process, Paotonu said.

"These young people do not have the financial resources to benefit from an opportunity like Outward Bound. We're always looking for more support."

The Kaweka course was made possible through generous donations from the Vogtherr Trust, Flaxmere College, Colin Francis Children's Charity, William Colenso Charitable Trust, Napier Masonic District Trust, Napier Rotary, Trust House Community Enterprise, Regal Furniture, Clova Trust and the Outward Bound Hawke's Bay Alumni 50th Fund.

If you would like to find out how you can help more students attend Outward Bound, email Karla Paotonu at kpaotonu@outwardbound.co.nz