It started out in 1998 as the vision of Hokitika Community Constable Rob Fox for a community-based programme that could assist local youth in their personal development. 

Today, Combined Adolescent Challenge Training Unit Support (CACTUS) has blossomed into a highly successful programme delivering positive change to young people all across New Zealand.

At CACTUS, participants go through an intensive fitness and skills programme, benefiting from proximity to the great outdoors. Courses run for eight to ten weeks parallel to school terms, extending teenagers’ physical, social and character development through team building activities.

The programme’s objectives are to grow self-discipline and strength of character, encourage physical and mental development and wellbeing, reinforce positive social skills and attitudes, and develop an ability to break through personal limitations and achieve goals.  

CACTUS runs on Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings from 6:30 am to 8:30 am.  The physical activity is concluded with a cooked breakfast, before students get ready for school.  The programme is in its fourth year at Manawatu College and participation from both staff and students remains strong.