At the start of December 2015, we got selected to attend the Otago Waterwise programme.

A $1000 scholarship was provided by Unchartered World Charitable Trust (UWCT) for us to attend. On the way to Cromwell we met six other people from Dunedin high schools. Together with some students from Central Otago we embarked on a week long journey to learn about water sustainability and management in the Otago region.

While in Central Otago we visited many places that apply and enforce sustainability practices such as Cardrona ski field, Otago Regional Council and the Clyde dam. In order to get the most out of our week we were up at 6.30 am and did not get to bed until midnight. The days were long and tiring but it was definitely worth it. We were encouraged to work as a group to coordinate our own schedule so that we could develop our leadership skills.

From this experience we not only developed a new found knowledge of sustainability but we also developed leadership skills and some life long friends. I highly encourage everyone to apply and give it a go as the experience is truly worth it.

By Nika Wood

The waterwise programme really opened my eyes to what goes on in and around Otago in relativity to water sustainability. I learnt that 3% of the Earth’s water is fresh, 2% of which is frozen. Water is precious and it is so important we have to realise we need to look after it, to look after ourselves. I met beautiful people and had a slightly crazy yet memorably awesome time. I loved it. Learning is living, so do it if you can!

Millie Cossou