Programme date: December 2025
Alongside the Amputee Society Top of the South we hosted the second edition of the ‘Stump & Limb Difference Camp’ which welcomed young people with limb difference from across Aotearoa for three days of connection, challenge and fun. Building on the success of last year, the camp continued to provide a space where participants could step outside their comfort zones, try new activities and, most importantly, meet others who share similar lived experiences. From kayaking, stand up paddle boarding and climbing to movie nights and impromptu games of cricket, the days were full and varied.
For many of the young people, simply seeing others like themselves attempting new challenges was powerful. As Amputees Federation NZ President Korrin Barrett explains,
“I think this camp just means everything. For kids to see another amputee or a child with a limb difference doing something they’ve told themselves they can’t do encourages them to give it a go. I’ve chatted with a few of the kids and asked what they’ve enjoyed so far. It’s all different. Some love camping for the first time. Some love movie night. Others love that they can all just get out there and play cricket.”
Korrin Barrett, President – Amputee Federation NZ
That diversity of experiences is intentional. The camp is designed to meet young people where they are, allowing them to choose how they participate and to discover what feels right for them. Whether it is going fast, slow or somewhere in between, every achievement is celebrated.
Parents also spoke about the impact they saw in a short amount of time. Vanessa, whose son attended the camp, shared how meaningful the experience has been for their whānau.
“The biggest takeaway my son has taken from the camp is new friendships, of course, but probably more importantly, acceptance of himself. Seeing him without a care in the world in many ways is really refreshing. We’ve been waiting for that for a long time. The kids are made to feel really normal in this environment. They are normal kids, but it’s nice for them to truly feel that.”
Vanessa, Parent
As well as fun activities the camp provides an important opportunity for families to connect with each other. Parents and caregivers are able to share stories, knowledge and encouragement, often forming relationships that continue well beyond the week itself.
At its heart, this camp is about belonging. It is about creating a community where young people with limb difference feel seen, supported and confident to be themselves. As the 2025 camp comes to a close, it is clear that the impact reaches far beyond the short term, leaving young people, families and supporters stronger and more connected than before.
Whenua Iti Outdoors is grateful to work alongside the Amputee Society Top of the South, Amputees Federation NZ and the wider community to make this camp possible. We look forward to continuing to support young amputees to explore their potential in the years ahead.
This camp is a great demonstration of the power of inclusive recreation. When you talk with parents, you quickly see how special it is for their children to experience the outdoors alongside peers who share similar stories. Being in this environment helps build confidence, connection and a real sense of belonging. It’s not just about the activities, but about giving young people the space to feel comfortable, capable and supported as they challenge themselves and have fun.
Mark Bruce-Miller, CEO Whenua Iti Outdoors
This camp is kindly supported by: