Rakiura Outdoor Extension 2026

Information and meetings for Rakiura have been provided to the students this week. Applications are due on June 19th.

Parent Information Notice

Dates - Monday 21st- Friday 25th September

Number of Students

24 students only in 2026

At Tahuna we provide an extension opportunity which involves an Outdoor Education Experience at Rakiura - Stewart Island. The experience is filled with learning opportunities. Some are guided by the experts and some are guided by the curiosity of the students. This trip has been running for more than a decade and lots of students regard it as a highlight of their time at Tahuna.

Students with proven leadership skills, a high level of resilience, that have exhibited excellent all-round skills on Tahuna school camps have preference. Year 8 Students who have displayed Tahuna Values to the highest level are always chosen. To be considered students need to submit a letter to Mr Scoles stating why they should be chosen to participate in this unique outdoor activity. A letter of endorsement from their class teacher is also required with parents also giving permission.

Applications must be received by the 19th June. Mr Scoles and Mr Lousley are happy to provide guidance with applications. There are also a few in Mr Scoles office to have a look at.

Fitness

All successful applicants will need to have an excellent level of fitness as it is a demanding week (We cover a lot of ground during the week, mostly walking!). All activities on the camp are compulsory and no exceptions will be made.

Proposed activities

Tramping - Mamaku Point to Maori Beach (part of the Rakiura Track)

Exploration around Oban & Horseshoe Bay (There are heaps of awesome short walks to explore)

Ulva Island - Visit to predator free sanctuary (Lots of walking to explore the island)

Conservation - The work of Conservation Pest Detection Dogs

Museum - Social Sciences (History) Investigate the history of Rakiura through Museum visit and follow up activities.

Fishing - Charter - tied in with a visit to Ulva Island.

Kiwi Spotting - We stay inside a predator free sanctuary. Every single person has seen kiwi the last couple of years.

Cod Off - Top Chef competition cooking fresh Blue Cod caught by us. We also get to experience plenty of the local kaimoana.

Costs approx $465 per student - We are anticipating some extra costs this year with high fuel costs.

We keep this trip cheaper than others because transport to Bluff and return is by school vans. No bus!

Accommodation

Accommodation will be at https://www.mamakupoint.nz/ where we have booked the entire complex. Mamaku Point is a pretty special place fully enclosed in a predator fence.

Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.

Roddy Scoles