Whaikaha (Seek Strength)

Support through Adventure Therapy at Whenua Iti Outdoors.

Based on a clinical approach used by field therapists, Whaikaha programmes are a proven, life changing intervention, using an adventure therapy model.
Our Whaikaha Programme includes preparation and relationship building, with follow up support centred around a 7-day wilderness journey. It uses solution-focused, strength-based and person-centred approaches to motivate participants and help them work through issues.

Participants experience a reconnection with self when immersed in nature and away from distractions. A major goal is to help students understand their basic needs, discover their core values, and learn to meet their needs in ways that honour their values. The programme is experiential and students are active members of the treatment team, therefore they are more invested in the therapeutic process. A Field Therapist oversees the treatment team for each student. Family, other students, field guides, and support staff are included where appropriate.

I was on the very first pilot of the adventure therapy course that took place in the Cobb valley and those 11 days in nature reconnecting with myself and others without distraction changed my life completely. I can’t thank Whenua Iti enough for what they did for me.

– Adventure Therapy Student

Further resources

To understand more about Adventure Therapy, and the growing recognition that a connection with nature is an integral part of wellbeing, read our Beginner’s Guide to Adventure Therapy.

Key Components:

Adventure
Health & Wellbeing

Open to:

Ages 13 - 17

Duration:

7 day wilderness programme + support

Delivery:

1-on-1 counselling support through 2-3 sessions both before & after an intensive 7 day wilderness therapy programme

Location:

Whenua Iti Outdoors / Local National Parks & Wilderness Areas

Cost:

Subsidised places are available through the application process

Dates:

Dates are to be advised. Check with your School Dean or School Counsellor.
Please get in touch to register your interest: [email protected]

Notes:

During their time in the wilderness, participants will establish a base camp to which they will frequently return. Outdoor activities such as bush craft and tramping are used to encourage self care and provide a platform for motivation and goal setting.

Qualified Instructors

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

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.

Safety Accredited

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

Other programmes at whenua iti outdoors

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Whaikaha (Seek Strength)