Aotearoa Orientation

Experience and learn about Aotearoa, New Zealand through this unique, immersive cultural orientation program designed to provide students with an authentic insight into Te Ao Māori and the connection between indigenous people of Aotearoa to Te Taiao (the environment).

You will learn about Te Ao Māori (the Māori world), take part in workshop activities, hear local pūrākau (stories) and expand your world view to see the world from indigenous perspectives while exploring sites of local significance. You will be supported and encouraged by our experienced and friendly instructors to make the most of the learning opportunities that await.

The programme will include a mix of activities that could include staying on a local marae (meeting house), taking part in a pōwhiri (traditional welcoming ceremony), going on a waka journey, learning the art of mau rākau (traditional Māori weaponry), learning waiata (traditional songs), preparing and sharing kai (food) while learning tikanga (protocols) and Māori approaches to family, the environment and wellbeing.  Activities are subject to the season, weather conditions and other logistical factors. Further programme detail is provided on enrolment.


This is an ExpedNZ Programme. 100% profit from this programme goes towards a fund that supports community focused programming.


This programme is for you if:

  • You are interested in learning more about Te Ao Māori (the Māori world)
  • You’re keen to explore new environments to connect with nature through an indigenous lens
  • You would like to connect more with Mātauranga Māori (Māori knowledge), te reo and tikanga Māori (Māori language and protocols)

Learning Objectives

  • Increasing willingness to learn
  • Understanding and assuming personal responsibility
  • Developing belief in self and increasing confidence
  • Developing a positive attitude
  • Recognising and developing potential
  • Developing resilience skills (coping with challenge and change)
  • Developing positive communication skills

You will leave this course with a bunch of new friends and with your kete (basket) of knowledge topped up ! Check out our latest adventures on Facebook and Instagram.

Related Holiday Programmes

Other Programmes:

Interested in earning NCEA credits outside the classroom? We offer a range of fully funded Trades Academy Programmes during the school terms.

Further resources

| Holiday & Award Programmes | Download our brochure

| Safety First | Find out more about our safety policies

| FAQs | Find answers to most commonly asked questions

| Gear Lists | Go to our Downloads page to find a generic gear list

| Experiential Learning | Find out more about the philosophy that underpins our programmes

Key Components:

  • Cultural
  • Nature Connection

Open to:

14 - 18 year old's

Duration:

4 nights / 5 days

Delivery:

Overnight exploration

Location:

Local national parks & surrounding wilderness locations

Cost:

$1250pp

Additional Costs If Required:
$50 pp* – Airport transfer fee

Dates:

2024 Dates:
Monday 8 – Friday 12 July

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Notes:

Cost includes all transport ex Nelson, food, equipment, tuition, adventures and fun!
Payment plans are available, please ask.
*Airport pick up/drop off can be coordinated for those from out of the region.  The flight will need to arrive prior to 9.00am on Monday morning.

whenua-iti-qualified-instructors

Qualified Instructors

You're in safe hands. Our friendly & highly professional instructors are all industry qualified for a wide range of activities.

whenauiti-NCEA-accredited

NZQA Qualified and NCEA Aligned

We are NZQA accredited, can offer NCEA Level 1-3 assessments and all programmes align with the NZ Curriculum key competencies.

whenuaiti-safety-accredited

Safety Accredited

We put safety first. We are a registered provider of Adventure Activities with Worksafe NZ, and are Safety audit certified with OutdoorsMark.

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