As part of the school Duke of Edinburgh Award, students have been putting themselves to the test in freezing conditions in the Tararua Ranges. Year 10 student Sofia Johnson reports on what happened.

Holdsworth Atiwhakatu Jumbo Trip

From the 12th to the 14th of October, seven UHC students: (Sofia, Devyn, Sasha, Chaquia, Thomas, Aiden and Greg), accompanied by Mr Weakley and Ms Burke, took on the challenge of a three day and two night tramp for the Duke Of Edinburgh Award. 

The breathtaking journey took them through the Tararuas and up into the snow covered peak. 

The trek brought them many obstacles which they faced like drinking water from snow, carrying everything they would need to survive in their pack, and climbing inclines that felt almost vertical. 

Everyone did so well and it was an epic experience that will last a long time in our memories.