Funding Your Programme

Whenua Iti Outdoors programmes are transformative journeys. They help grow your confidence, resilience and leadership. Whether you're exploring cultural connections, learning new skills, or pushing personal boundaries, each experience is an investment in your future. It’s about supporting you to become the best version of yourself.

But we also know that cost can feel like a hurdle. Covering the full programme fee upfront may seem daunting and that’s totally understandable. The good news is, you’re not alone, and there’s plenty of support available to help you take part.

Funding Options for Programmes

If you are an individual or group there are several options that you can look at to help with funding your Whenua Iti Outdoors (WIO) programme.

We offer:

Fully or partially funded spaces on select programmes
Trades Academy placements (Government-funded for school students)
Creative fundraising guidance for everything else

Let’s make it happen together!

Explore your options below or get in touch by email. You can even call us directly on 03 526 7842 – we’re here to help!

Trades Academy – Fully funded programmes for school students

Through our partnership with the Top of the South Trades Academy and the West Coast Trades Academy, students enrolled in secondary school (Year 11–13) may be eligible for fully funded places on several Whenua Iti Outdoors programmes. Get in touch today for more information.

Fundraising for your experience

If you're not eligible for full funding, fundraising is a great way to help cover programme costs. It’s not only effective it also builds commitment and brings your whānau and community along for the journey. From garage sales to Givealittle pages, sausage sizzles to sponsored challenges, there are loads of ways to raise the funds you need. Fundraising is open to all ages and backgrounds.

Start with the right mindset

Every Whenua Iti programme challenges you to step out of your comfort zone and fundraising is your first step. It’s a powerful way to set your intention, build momentum, and commit to your goals.

Whānau support matters

Bringing your friends and whānau into the process helps them understand why this experience is important to you. They might even want to pitch in or help you plan an event!

Individuals

If you are an individual looking for funding Generosity is a good place to start - you can log in with your library card. They provide details of hundreds of scholarships for people like you. Alternatively, Tasman District Council offer a youth leadership grant and a similar scheme is available through Nelson City Council and Marlborough Councils. The McKee Trust also provides scholarships, contact us for more information.

As an individual, you can also fundraise with baking, sponsorship events – your local community will be right behind you.