During week 5 of this term the Yr 11 Pure Outdoor Education class completed their "Testing Taster Journey" in our local environment. As per the name of the trip the journey was to provide an opportunity for students to experience or ‘get a taste’ of pure outdoor education and test their mental and physical capabilities. 

The three day and three night journey was at a time of wet and windy weather. However, this did not stop our adventurous lot who braved the elements. As a result the students gained a massive sense of achievement, experienced new challenges and were rewarded with spectacular 360 degree views above Wellington, Porirua, Pukerua Bay, Pauatahanui and Paekakariki. There were 4 main legs to the journey. A waka paddle from the Toa Waka base near Whitireia Polytech to the Camborne Waterski Club, then a bike ride around Pauatahanui Inlet to Battle Hill. After a night in tents the students then walked about 12 kilometres over the Paekakakiri Hills to the Paekakariki Scout Den where they stayed the night. On the last day of the trip the students biked all the way back to Mana College, completing the round circuit.

 From this experience the students will gain up to 8 Level 1 credits by being able to demonstrate, and show understanding of, responsible behaviour for safety during outdoor education activities' and being able to participate actively in a variety of physical activities and explain factors that influence their own participation. It was an epic and most enjoyable journey had by all. 

 A big thanks goes out to the staff and trusted volunteers who helped us like John Poppleton, Andy Hanara, Megan Claridge, Marina Anderton, Dave Prosser, Cam and Stu Fraser and the Paekakariki Scout Group.