Keziah Summerfield

I’ve been privileged to spend three amazing weeks in Anakiwa, participating in the mind, body and soul course offered by outward bound. I was on course 703 and in Huriwhenua watch. Over my time on the course I experienced a range of new, exciting activities such as surf kayaking and river kayaking, tramping, sailing, rowing, high ropes, rock climbing and a solo. I loved almost every minute I was there, but highlights have to be sailing under the stars on a completely clear night, and seeing hundreds of glow worms surrounding us after a long day of kayaking. Another highlight was sailing all the way through the Queen Charlotte sound, to the edge of the Cook Strait. The seas were rough, but everyone's spirits were high as we sailed past the Outward Bound limits. One more highlight was being surrounded by dolphins while rowing at sunset. The sky was orange, and we were all pretty tired after already rowing for an hour, but in the distance there was a whole heap of dolphins. We kept rowing and because they liked the sound of the oars splashing in the water, they followed us in the moonlight until we stopped. My least favourite part was when we were running late for breakfast, after PT, which led us to arrive late to assembly one morning and were made to do 30 push ups, 30 Russian twists and 45 squats before running one kilometre but stopping every minute to do 4 burpees then a swim in the sea, all of this in the pouring rain. It is fair to say we learnt our lesson, and we weren't late again after that!

Overall, it was the most incredible, challenging three weeks of my life. The mental and physical challenges you experience are made completely worth it by the friendships, and mindset you gain. By the time the course is over, the watch is a family and nobody wants to leave each other. The friendships I made while I was there are ones that I will cherish forever. I met the most amazing people, and I’ll never forget the support and encouragement they gave me. I learnt more about myself, my values and my mindset. I have come out far more confident, willing to be challenged and definitely more tough than before. I’ve pushed myself further than I thought I could, and I’ll be forever grateful for the chance for the experience.