It’s been an action-packed first term for the Year 13 Outdoor Education class, from surfing at Mount Maunganui to Kaimai Range river crossings.

Earlier this month, the class spent the day surfing at the Mount under the guidance of Hibiscus Surf School instructors. Students demonstrated their surfing skills, paddling, catching waves, and reading the conditions as they continued to work towards NCEA credits in the practical performance of surfing. They have been preparing at school with practical surf skating and water safety theory during lessons.

Surf conditions on the day had small yet clean waves ideal for beginners, with a light offshore breeze fanning the ocean. The water was clear, the sun was shining and it was a great opportunity to enjoy our stunning local coastline that we are so fortunate to have in Tauranga Moana.

The instructors were impressed with the students' manners, politeness, and ability to paddle around the whole of Moturiki Island at a fast pace.

Last month, the group headed to the Kaimai Ranges to learn about bush craft, with a focus on river crossings, and to gain some NCEA credits at Level 3.

They walked the 5km Rapurapu Stream (3 Kauris' walk) which involved about 16 river crossings, with a couple of unintentional immersions! Then they headed to the McLaren Falls swimming hole where pack floats, self-rescue, and defensive swimming were undertaken, followed by some manus!

A stunning day in our local hinterland, with lots of laughs, fun and learning. It's going to be a really productive year with an awesome bunch of Year 13s.