Aoraki and Beyond: Your Essential Guide to Hiking and Climbing in New Zealand

The Adventureworks Team • 5 September 2025

Your Essential Guide to Hiking New Zealand's Great Walks

Key Takeaways

  • New Zealand's Great Walks are more popular than ever, with bookings for the 2025/26 season surging significantly, making planning essential.
  • Securing a spot on a Great Walk requires understanding the Department of Conservation’s online booking system and knowing when bookings open for each track.
  • The walks are spread across the North Island and South Island, offering diverse landscapes from volcanic craters and lush forests to stunning coastal tracks.
  • Thorough preparation is key; building skills in tramping, navigation, and outdoor safety ensures a rewarding and safe adventure for everyone.
  • For aspiring outdoor leaders, these hikes can be a stepping stone to a professional career through recognised qualifications.

There’s a reason people travel from all over the world to hike in New Zealand. Our country is a breathtaking tapestry of dramatic landscapes, from ancient forests and alpine peaks to golden beaches and pristine fiords. At the heart of this outdoor paradise are the Great Walks, a collection of premier multi-day hiking trails that represent the best scenery New Zealand has to offer. As our tourism sector continues its strong recovery, with visitor arrivals now at 87% of pre-pandemic levels , the demand for these iconic experiences has skyrocketed. This guide is designed to help you navigate that popularity, whether you're an educator planning a school trip, a youth leader organising an adventurous journey, or an aspiring outdoor professional looking to hone your skills.

The Unprecedented Demand for NZ's Great Walks

If you’re thinking about tackling a Great Walk, you’re not alone. The secret is well and truly out. The demand for these incredible journeys has reached fever pitch, transforming the booking process into an event in itself. To put it in perspective, Great Walk bookings are up 7% for the 2025/26 season , with over 140,000 bed nights snapped up on the day bookings opened. This generated more than $9 million in a single day, a testament to the immense value people place on these experiences. This isn't just an international phenomenon; Kiwis love their backyard. Between December 2024 and February 2025, nearly 60,000 people hiked the Great Walks, with New Zealanders making up a solid 60% of that number. This incredible popularity means that if you want to secure a spot, you need a plan.

What Are the Great Walks of New Zealand?

The Great Walks are a network of premier multi-day hiking tracks maintained by the Department of Conservation (DOC). They are chosen for their outstanding natural beauty and are made accessible through a system of well-maintained tracks and backcountry huts. These aren't just any hiking trails; they traverse some of the most stunning and diverse landscapes in the country. You can explore the volcanic heart of the North Island on the Tongariro Northern Circuit, paddle the deep, calm waters of the Whanganui Journey, or wander through the lush beech forest and alpine tops of the Kepler Track in the South Island. The network includes coastal journeys like the Abel Tasman Coast Track, remote adventures on Stewart Island's Rakiura Track, and the country's newest Great Walk, the Paparoa Track. Soon, the spectacular Hump Ridge Track in Fiordland will also join this exclusive list, further cementing New Zealand’s reputation as a world-class hiking destination.

Your Step-by-Step Guide to Booking a Great Walk

With huts and campsites on popular tracks booking out in minutes, a little preparation goes a long way. Think of it less like booking accommodation and more like getting tickets to a sell-out concert. Here’s how to give yourself the best shot.

Step 1: Choose Your Adventure

First, decide which Great Walk is right for you. Consider your fitness, the time you have, and the kind of scenery that calls to you. Do you dream of golden beaches and turquoise water? The Abel Tasman Coast Track might be for you. Are you drawn to the raw, dramatic beauty of Fiordland National Park? Then the Routeburn or Kepler Track could be on your list. For a truly unique experience that isn’t a walk at all, the Whanganui Journey is a multi-day trip by kayak or canoe down a historic river. Research the different tracks on the Department of Conservation website to find your perfect match.

Step 2: Know the Booking Opening Dates

This is the most critical step. The Department of Conservation staggers the booking opening dates for the Great Walks, usually throughout May and June for the following season (which runs from spring to autumn). These dates are announced well in advance. Mark the date and time in your calendar for your chosen track. Be aware of time zones if you're booking from overseas. On booking day, the most popular tracks, like the Milford Track, can sell out for the entire season in under an hour.

Step 3: Use the DOC Booking System

To save precious time on booking day, create an account on the DOC's online booking system beforehand. Familiarise yourself with the interface so you know exactly where to click. Have your preferred dates, as well as several backup dates, ready to go. You’ll also need the names and details of everyone in your party. When the clock strikes, be logged in, be ready, and be quick. The system is designed to handle high traffic, but with thousands of people trying to book accommodation at once, every second counts.

What is the Most Famous Hiking Trail in New Zealand?

The Milford Track is often considered the most famous hiking trail in New Zealand. Hailed for over a century as "the finest walk in the world," this 53.5-kilometre journey through Fiordland National Park is on the bucket list of hikers globally. The track offers an incredible cross-section of New Zealand's epic scenery, from the crystal-clear waters of Lake Te Anau, through ancient rainforests and across alpine passes, culminating in the breathtaking majesty of Milford Sound. While the Milford Track holds a special status, other tracks like the Routeburn, with its panoramic views, and the Tongariro Northern Circuit, with its active volcanic landscape, are equally famous and spectacular in their own right.

Preparing for Your Great Walk Adventure

Booking your Great Walk is just the beginning; the real preparation starts now. A successful multi-day hike, or tramp as we call it in NZ, depends on your physical fitness, your gear, and your skills. It's about being ready for whatever the trail and the changeable New Zealand weather throw at you. Beyond just having the right gear, having the right skills is paramount. For anyone looking to build their confidence before tackling a multi-day tramp, we offer hands-on training in essential outdoor activities. Our public courses in tramping , mountain biking, and more are perfect for preparing for a New Zealand hiking adventure. These programmes are designed to build your capability and confidence in the outdoors, covering everything from navigation to river safety, so you can focus on enjoying the stunning scenery.

For Educators, Youth Leaders, and Aspiring Professionals

The Great Walks are more than just hiking trails; they are powerful outdoor classrooms. They offer incredible opportunities for personal growth, leadership development, and fostering a deep connection with the natural world. Organising an adventurous journey for a youth group can seem daunting, but the rewards are immense. As a recognised provider for the Duke of Edinburgh's Hillary Award, we have extensive experience in this area. We provide tailored support for Bronze, Silver, and Gold DofE participants , ensuring every journey is safe, well-organised, and unforgettable, helping young people build resilience and self-reliance. For those who feel the call of the mountains as a career path, these hikes are more than just a holiday—they're a classroom. We provide a clear pathway to a professional career in the outdoor industry. Thanks to our partnership with the New Zealand Outdoor Instructors Association (NZOIA) , our NZQA-accredited qualifications can lead directly to NZOIA awards and membership, turning a passion for the outdoors into a profession.

Respecting the Whenua (Land)

Embarking on a Great Walk is a privilege that comes with a responsibility to care for the land. The concept of Tiaki means to care for people, place, and culture for now and for future generations. When you're out on the track, you are a guardian of these precious national parks. This means following Leave No Trace principles: pack out everything you pack in (including food scraps), stay on the marked tracks to protect fragile ecosystems, and give wildlife its space. By treading lightly and acting as kaitiaki (guardians), we ensure these incredible landscapes remain pristine for all who follow.

Hiking one of New Zealand’s Great Walks is an experience that stays with you long after you've taken off your boots. It’s a chance to disconnect from the noise of daily life and reconnect with something more fundamental. With the right planning, preparation, and respect for the environment, this incredible adventure is well within your reach. So, start dreaming, start planning, and we'll see you out on the track.

by The Adventureworks Team 15 August 2025
Discover the core principles of effective youth development in NZ, including the 6 C's, the power of outdoor education, and Te Ao Māori principles. Empowering rangatahi for a brighter future.
by Mark Mandeno 13 August 2025
Introduction: Learning in the World’s Greatest Classroom In Aotearoa New Zealand, we are privileged to live in a landscape that inspires curiosity, demands resilience, and fosters deep connections between people and place. At AdventureWorks NZ, we believe the outdoors is more than just a backdrop—it is an active participant in learning. Our mission is to champion the transformative power of outdoor education and to provide a trusted foundation for educators and organisations seeking to understand its unique role in New Zealand’s educational landscape. What is Outdoor Education? Outdoor education is a broad, dynamic approach to teaching and learning where the natural world is the primary setting. It blends physical activity, environmental connection, and personal growth through authentic, hands-on experiences. Unlike classroom-based learning, outdoor education relies on experiential learning—students learn through doing, reflecting, and applying their insights. In New Zealand, outdoor education often integrates: Adventure activities (e.g., tramping, kayaking, rock climbing) Environmental learning (understanding ecosystems, conservation practices) Personal and social development (teamwork, leadership, problem-solving) The outdoor education approach is about using the environment as both context and catalyst for meaningful, real-world learning. A Brief History of Outdoor Education in New Zealand Outdoor education in Aotearoa has deep roots in Māori traditions of living closely with the land and sea, where knowledge of the natural environment was essential for survival and cultural identity. In the 20th century, influences from organisations like Outward Bound (established in Anakiwa in 1962) and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award helped formalise outdoor learning as a recognised educational practice. By the late 1980s, schools were incorporating Outdoor Education into the New Zealand Curriculum, and tertiary training pathways for outdoor educators began to grow. Today, the sector is supported by a network of schools, outdoor centres, community organisations, and commercial providers—each contributing to a rich tradition of learning in, about, and for the outdoors. Core Principles of Experiential Learning At the heart of outdoor education is experiential learning—a cycle that moves from experience to reflection , then to conceptualisation and application . Key principles include: Learning by doing – Authentic tasks and challenges lead to deeper understanding. Challenge and support – Experiences are carefully designed to stretch learners while ensuring emotional and physical safety. Reflection – Guided discussion and journaling help students make meaning from their experiences. Transfer of learning – Skills and insights gained in the outdoors are applied to other life contexts, from classroom studies to community participation. Psychological and Social Benefits for Students Research consistently shows that outdoor education delivers benefits well beyond physical skills: Increased resilience – Facing uncertainty and challenge builds adaptability. Enhanced social skills – Working in groups fosters communication, cooperation, and empathy. Improved mental wellbeing – Time in nature reduces stress, boosts mood, and enhances cognitive function. Greater self-awareness – Students develop a clearer understanding of their strengths, values, and areas for growth. These benefits align closely with the Key Competencies of the New Zealand Curriculum—especially “managing self,” “relating to others,” and “participating and contributing.” Regulatory and Safety Frameworks New Zealand’s outdoor education sector operates under robust safety and quality assurance systems. Key frameworks include: The Health and Safety at Work Act (2015) – Places responsibility on organisations to identify and manage risks. Adventure Activities Regulations – Require certain high-risk activities to be registered and audited. Education Outside the Classroom (EOTC) Guidelines – Ministry of Education guidance for schools on planning and managing learning experiences beyond the classroom. Safety Management Systems (SMS) – Provider-specific policies, procedures, and training to ensure best practice. At AdventureWorks NZ, we operate under a comprehensive QMS (Quality Management System) that meets and exceeds these requirements, ensuring both safety and educational integrity. Conclusion: Our Commitment to the Aotearoa Classroom For us, the mountains, rivers, forests, and coastlines of New Zealand are not just scenic—they are essential partners in education. The Aotearoa Classroom is a place where learning is active, holistic, and deeply connected to culture and environment. As New Zealand’s leading provider of outdoor education, AdventureWorks NZ remains committed to shaping the future of the sector, supporting educators, and inspiring the next generation to learn, grow, and thrive in the natural world.
by Mark Mandeno 7 February 2024
Breaking Down Ableism: The Power of Language in Shaping Societal Attitudes
by Mark Mandeno 7 July 2023
Expanding Comfort Zones The concept of a comfort zone is widely recognised in psychology and refers to a psychological state in which an individual feels safe, secure, and familiar with their surroundings, behaviours, and capabilities. It is a mental and emotional space where one experiences minimal anxiety or stress. Within this zone, individuals typically engage in activities or maintain relationships that they perceive as low-risk and familiar. Stepping outside of the comfort zone, on the other hand, involves engaging in novel, unfamiliar, and potentially anxiety-provoking experiences. To understand the nature of comfort zones and the process of expanding them, we can draw upon several psychological ideas and theories. Let's explore these concepts in-depth: Anxiety and Fear: The fear and anxiety associated with leaving one's comfort zone can be attributed to the innate human tendency to seek safety and predictability. When faced with unfamiliar situations or environments, our brain perceives potential threats and activates the fear response. This response is rooted in our evolutionary history, where avoiding danger was crucial for survival. Therefore, venturing outside the comfort zone can trigger feelings of fear, uncertainty, and vulnerability. Cognitive Dissonance: Cognitive dissonance theory, proposed by Leon Festinger, suggests that individuals have an innate drive to maintain consistency between their beliefs, attitudes, and behaviours. Within their comfort zone, individuals often adhere to familiar patterns and behaviours that align with their existing beliefs and values. Stepping outside this zone may introduce new experiences and information that challenge their established beliefs, leading to cognitive dissonance. Expanding the comfort zone requires a willingness to confront and resolve this dissonance by adapting and adjusting one's beliefs and attitudes. Self-Efficacy: Albert Bandura's concept of self-efficacy plays a crucial role in expanding the boundaries of a comfort zone. Self-efficacy refers to an individual's belief in their ability to successfully accomplish a particular task or navigate a new situation. When individuals consistently operate within their comfort zones, they may develop a limited perception of their capabilities. By taking risks and stepping outside their comfort zones, individuals can enhance their self-efficacy through the acquisition of new skills, experiences, and successes. Growth Mindset: The concept of a growth mindset, developed by Carol Dweck, is closely related to expanding comfort zones. A growth mindset entails believing that abilities and intelligence can be developed through effort, practice, and learning. In contrast, a fixed mindset assumes that skills and capabilities are predetermined and unchangeable. Individuals with a growth mindset are more likely to embrace challenges and see them as opportunities for growth, which facilitates stepping outside the comfort zone. Optimal Anxiety Zone: The optimal anxiety zone, also known as the "flow" state, is an important consideration when expanding the comfort zone. This concept, proposed by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, suggests that individuals perform best when they experience a moderate level of anxiety or arousal. If the level of anxiety is too low (within the comfort zone), individuals may feel bored and unstimulated. Conversely, if the anxiety level is too high (outside the comfort zone), individuals may become overwhelmed and unable to function effectively. By gradually pushing the boundaries of their comfort zone, individuals can find the optimal balance between anxiety and performance. Expanding the boundary of a comfort zone requires conscious effort and a willingness to be vulnerable. It involves embracing uncertainty, taking risks, and challenging oneself. Here are some strategies that can help in this process: Start Small and Gradually Increase Challenges: Instead of leaping into completely unknown territory, it is often helpful to begin with small steps. By progressively exposing oneself to slightly uncomfortable situations and gradually increasing the level of difficulty, individuals can expand their comfort zones without overwhelming themselves. Embrace Discomfort: Recognise that discomfort and fear are natural responses when stepping outside the comfort zone. Instead of avoiding or suppressing these feelings, it is important to acknowledge and embrace them. Understand that discomfort is a sign of growth and an opportunity for personal development. By reframing discomfort as a positive signal, individuals can become more resilient and open to new experiences. Set Realistic Goals: Setting realistic and achievable goals is crucial when expanding the comfort zone. Break down larger challenges into smaller, manageable steps. By setting specific goals, individuals can focus their efforts and track their progress. Celebrating small victories along the way provides motivation and reinforces the belief in one's abilities. Cultivate a Growth Mindset: Adopting a growth mindset is instrumental in expanding the comfort zone. Believe that abilities and skills can be developed through effort and learning. View challenges as opportunities for growth and embrace the process of learning from both successes and failures. By reframing setbacks as learning experiences, individuals can maintain a positive attitude and persevere in the face of obstacles. Seek Support: Having a support system facilitates the process of expanding the comfort zone. Surround yourself with individuals who encourage and support personal growth. Seek out mentors, coaches, or friends who have successfully stepped outside their own comfort zones. Their guidance, advice, and encouragement can provide reassurance and motivation during challenging times. Reflect and Learn: Take the time to reflect on experiences outside the comfort zone. Evaluate what worked well and what could be improved. By reflecting on past experiences, individuals can gain insights into their strengths, weaknesses, and areas for further growth. Use these reflections as a foundation for future challenges and continue to refine and expand the comfort zone. Expanding the boundaries of a comfort zone is not a one-time event but an ongoing process of personal growth. It requires a willingness to be vulnerable, embrace discomfort, and push the limits of what feels familiar. By gradually stepping outside the comfort zone and exploring new possibilities, individuals can discover their true potential and lead a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
by Mark Mandeno 7 July 2023
Introduction: Adventure-based youth development programs provide unique opportunities for young people to explore their potential, develop crucial life skills, and foster personal growth. One powerful framework that aligns perfectly with this approach is the Hero's Journey. Derived from mythology and storytelling, the Hero's Journey metaphorically represents the transformative process of young individuals as they embark on exciting adventures and overcome obstacles. In this blog post, we will explore how the stages of the Hero's Journey can be applied to adventure-based youth development programs, empowering young people to discover their inner heroes and embrace their full potential. Ordinary World: Just like every hero starts their journey in an ordinary world, adventure-based youth development programs begin by acknowledging the young person's current reality. It is essential to understand their strengths, interests, challenges, and aspirations. This stage provides a foundation for designing tailored experiences that cater to their unique needs. Call to Adventure: Adventure-based activities, such as outdoor expeditions, team challenges, and problem-solving scenarios, serve as a call to adventure. These experiences prompt young people to step out of their comfort zones, explore the unknown, and discover new possibilities. They are challenged to embrace risks, take initiative, and develop a sense of curiosity and resilience. Refusal of the Call: At times, young participants may initially resist the call to adventure due to fear, self-doubt, or perceived limitations. As youth workers, it is crucial to create a safe and supportive environment that encourages them to confront their fears, embrace discomfort, and push through their self-imposed boundaries. Meeting the Mentor: In adventure-based youth development programs, mentors play a pivotal role in guiding and inspiring young participants. These mentors, whether they are experienced outdoor educators, group facilitators, or trusted adults, provide guidance, encouragement, and wisdom. They foster positive relationships, empower young people to believe in themselves and impart valuable skills and knowledge. Crossing the Threshold: As young participants engage in adventure-based activities, they metaphorically cross the threshold from their familiar world to the realm of challenges and growth. They learn to adapt to unfamiliar environments, collaborate with peers, and develop problem-solving skills. These experiences help them discover hidden strengths, embrace diversity, and build resilience. Tests, Allies, and Enemies: Throughout their adventure, young people face tests, encounter allies, and confront personal and group challenges. These experiences help them build trust, communication skills, and conflict-resolution abilities. They learn the value of teamwork, empathy, and perseverance as they navigate the ups and downs of their journey. Approach to the Inmost Cave: As participants progress through adventure-based activities, they encounter moments of self-reflection and introspection. They confront personal fears, confront their limitations, and explore their innermost thoughts and emotions. This stage provides an opportunity for self-discovery and personal growth. Ordeal: The ordeal stage represents a significant challenge or obstacle that young participants must face during their adventure. It could be a physically demanding activity, an emotional breakthrough, or a difficult decision. By overcoming these obstacles, they develop resilience, self-efficacy, and a belief in their ability to overcome future challenges. Reward: After facing their ordeal, young participants experience a sense of accomplishment and reward. This could come in the form of personal growth, increased self-confidence, recognition from peers, or a newfound sense of purpose. Celebrating these achievements is crucial for reinforcing positive outcomes and fostering continued motivation. The Road Back: As adventure-based programs near their conclusion, youth workers guide participants in reflecting on their experiences and help them translate their newfound skills and perspectives back into their daily lives. They encourage young people to set goals, develop personal action plans and identify ways to apply their adventure-based learnings in their communities and future endeavours. Resurrection: In the resurrection stage, young participants experience a transformation within themselves. They emerge from their adventure-based journey with a renewed sense of self, a greater understanding of their strengths and values, and the confidence to tackle future challenges. They have developed a resilient mindset and are better equipped to navigate life's ups and downs. Return with the Elixir: The final stage of the Hero's Journey metaphor in adventure-based youth development is the return with the elixir. Participants bring back their newfound skills, knowledge, and personal growth to their communities, families, and future endeavours. They become ambassadors of positive change, inspiring others through their experiences and the lessons they've learned. Value of the Hero's Journey in Adventure-Based Youth Development: The Hero's Journey metaphor holds immense value in adventure-based youth development programs. By structuring activities and experiences in alignment with the stages of the Hero's Journey, youth workers can provide a framework for young people to embark on their transformative journeys. Empowerment and Resilience: The Hero's Journey metaphor empowers young people by encouraging them to take risks, embrace challenges, and develop resilience. It helps them recognise that setbacks and obstacles are opportunities for growth and self-discovery. Self-Reflection and Personal Growth: The Hero's Journey encourages introspection, self-reflection, and a deeper understanding of oneself. It prompts young people to explore their values, strengths, and aspirations, fostering personal growth and self-awareness. Collective Connection: The Hero's Journey, being a universal narrative pattern, connects young people to the broader human experience. It helps them realize that their personal journey is part of a larger story, creating a sense of belonging and shared purpose. Mentoring and Support: Youth workers can embody the mentor figure in the Hero's Journey, providing guidance, encouragement, and support to young people. They can be role models and facilitators, helping young people navigate challenges, discover their strengths, and develop skills and resilience. Meaning and Purpose: The Hero's Journey provides young people with a framework to explore their sense of purpose and meaning in life. It encourages them to reflect on their values, passions, and goals, guiding them towards a more intentional and purposeful life. Storytelling and Reflection: The Hero's Journey invites young people to share their stories, experiences, and reflections. Through storytelling and group discussions, they can gain insights from one another's journeys, fostering empathy, understanding, and a sense of community. Conclusion: Adventure-based youth development programs provide a fertile ground for the Hero's Journey metaphor to come alive. By structuring activities and experiences in alignment with the stages of the Hero's Journey, youth workers can guide young people on a transformative journey of self-discovery, resilience-building, and personal growth. Through adventure and exploration, participants develop valuable life skills, gain a sense of empowerment, and become the heroes of their own stories. As we embrace the adventure, we enable young people to unlock their full potential and embark on a lifelong journey of self-discovery and positive impact.
by Mark Mandeno 7 July 2023
Introduction In Carl Jung's quote from "The Symbolic Life," he presents a powerful metaphor for self-development through the imagery of a dragon's hoard. According to Jung, only the individual who confronts and triumphs over the dragon without being consumed by it can claim the "treasure hard to attain." This essay explores how this metaphor symbolises the journey of self-discovery and personal growth, revealing the significance of facing inner darkness, acquiring self-confidence, and cultivating resilience. Confronting the Dragon: Symbolizing Inner Darkness Confronting the dragon in the metaphor represents the courageous act of facing our inner darkness and exploring the depths of our psyche. The dragon embodies our fears, insecurities, and unresolved conflicts that often lie buried within us. Just as a dragon guards its treasure fiercely, these aspects of ourselves can be formidable and intimidating to confront. However, by acknowledging their existence and mustering the courage to face them, we initiate a process of self-discovery and personal growth. This stage of confronting the dragon involves delving into our shadow self, a concept introduced by Jung, which encompasses the aspects of our personality that we tend to repress or deny. It involves examining our flaws, unconscious patterns, and suppressed emotions. By shining a light on this hidden terrain, we gain a deeper understanding of ourselves, paving the way for healing and transformation. Overcoming the Dragon: The Triumph of Self Overcoming the dragon signifies the triumph of self over the formidable challenges within. It represents integrating our shadow self, accepting our vulnerabilities, and embracing our authentic nature. By not allowing the dragon to consume us, we demonstrate our ability to face our inner demons without being overwhelmed or controlled by them. Overcoming the dragon is not a battle of dominance or suppression but rather an integration of opposing forces within ourselves. It involves acknowledging and accepting our light and dark aspects, recognising that they coexist and contribute to our wholeness. Through this integration, we discover a greater sense of self-acceptance, compassion, and authenticity. Claiming the Hoard: The Treasure of Self-Confidence The dragon's hoard represents the metaphorical treasure that is difficult to attain, signifying the rewards of self-development. It encompasses qualities such as self-confidence, inner peace, and authenticity. By successfully confronting and overcoming the dragon, the individual gains a genuine claim to this treasure. The process of claiming the hoard involves recognising and appreciating the growth and inner transformation that has taken place. The individual acquires a deep sense of self-confidence, rooted in the understanding that they have faced their innermost fears and have emerged stronger. This self-confidence is not merely an external façade but arises from an inner certainty that sustains and supports the individual in navigating future challenges. Faith and Trust in Self: Sustaining Inner Strength Conquering the dragon instils faith and trust in oneself. The experience of facing the dark ground of the self, confronting inner challenges, and integrating them cultivates a deep sense of inner strength and resilience. The individual realises they possess the inner resources necessary to overcome obstacles and grow from them. This newfound faith and trust in oneself allow for a greater sense of self-reliance. The individual no longer feels overwhelmed or dependent on external validation or circumstances. Instead, they recognise their own capabilities and inner wisdom, empowering them to navigate life's challenges with greater confidence. The Continuous Journey of Self-Development The metaphor of the dragon's hoard highlights that self-development is an ongoing journey rather than a one-time conquest. Each dragon encountered represents a different aspect of the self to be confronted and integrated. Just as a dragon guards its treasure, each challenge guards a valuable lesson and an opportunity for growth. The experience of conquering previous dragons strengthens the individual's belief in their ability to face future challenges. It fosters an attitude of resilience and adaptability, as the individual understands that the process of self-development is continuous. Each victory reinforces their inner certainty, enabling them to tackle future obstacles and embrace personal growth. Conclusion: The metaphor of the dragon's hoard serves as a profound symbol for self-development, encompassing the journey of confronting inner darkness, overcoming challenges, and claiming the rewards of personal growth. By embracing this metaphor, individuals can embark on a transformative path of self-discovery, self-acceptance, and self-confidence. Facing the dragon and integrating its lessons leads to a deep sense of inner strength, resilience, and trust in oneself. It is a continuous journey, with each conquered dragon paving the way for further growth and realising one's true potential.
by Mark Mandeno 15 April 2023
Learning in the field that will help you anywhere Spending time in the great outdoors can be both exhilarating and fulfilling, and many people enjoy the physical and mental benefits of outdoor activities. However, outdoor enthusiasts may not realize that the skills they develop in the wilderness can also benefit them in the boardroom. The ability to lead and work effectively in a team, make sound decisions under pressure, and adapt to changing circumstances are all qualities that are essential for success in both outdoor activities and business environments. In this blog post, we will explore the ways in which outdoor leadership skills can be leveraged for career success. Communication Skills: In the outdoors, clear and effective communication is crucial for safety and success. Leaders must be able to convey instructions clearly and concisely, and listen actively to ensure that everyone on the team is on the same page. These skills are also essential in the boardroom, where leaders must communicate effectively with team members, stakeholders, and clients. Decision-making skills: In outdoor activities, leaders often face unpredictable and rapidly changing conditions. They must be able to make quick decisions based on incomplete information and assess risks accurately. This ability to make sound decisions under pressure is also valuable in the business world, where leaders must make strategic decisions based on incomplete or conflicting information. Collaboration skills: Collaboration and teamwork are essential for success in outdoor activities, where individuals must work together to achieve common goals. Leaders must be able to motivate and inspire team members, foster a sense of trust and cooperation, and resolve conflicts effectively. These same skills are also critical in the workplace, where leaders must manage diverse teams and foster a collaborative and inclusive culture. Adaptability: The outdoors is a constantly changing environment, and leaders must be able to adapt to shifting conditions, unexpected challenges, and new opportunities. This adaptability is also critical in the business world, where leaders must be able to navigate changing market conditions, technological disruptions, and evolving customer needs. Resilience: Outdoor activities can be physically and mentally challenging, and leaders must be resilient in the face of adversity. They must be able to bounce back from setbacks, maintain a positive attitude, and inspire others to do the same. These same qualities are also essential in the workplace, where leaders must be able to navigate setbacks, failures, and setbacks, and lead their teams through challenging times. Applying Outdoor Leadership Skills to the Workplace: Leadership Development: Many organizations are recognizing the value of outdoor leadership skills and are incorporating outdoor leadership development programs into their training programs. These programs provide participants with opportunities to develop and practice critical leadership skills, such as communication, collaboration, decision-making, and adaptability, in an immersive and challenging outdoor environment. Team Building: Outdoor activities can also be an effective way to build stronger teams and foster a sense of camaraderie and trust. Activities such as rock climbing, backpacking, and white-water rafting require individuals to work together, rely on each other, and trust each other in challenging and unfamiliar situations. These experiences can translate into improved teamwork, communication, and collaboration in the workplace. Innovation: The outdoors can also be a source of inspiration and creativity. Exposure to new environments, challenges, and experiences can stimulate innovation and problem-solving skills. Leaders who embrace outdoor activities may be more likely to think outside the box and develop innovative solutions to complex problems. Conclusion: The skills and qualities that are essential for success in the outdoors, such as communication, decision-making, collaboration, adaptability, and resilience, are also valuable in the business world. Leaders who develop and leverage these skills can become more effective in their roles, build stronger teams, and drive innovation and growth. By embracing outdoor activities and incorporating outdoor leadership development programs into their training programs, organizations can tap into this valuable source of leadership
by Mark Mandeno 15 April 2023
The Importance of Nature and Adventure-Based Training in Youth Work: Understanding the Benefits for Youth Workers and the Young People they Serve
by Mark Mandeno 14 April 2023
Introduction In today's world, it's not uncommon to see people glued to their screens for hours on end. Whether it's a computer, a smartphone, or a tablet, screens have become an integral part of our daily lives. However, while technology has made many aspects of our lives easier and more convenient, it has also led to a sedentary lifestyle that is harmful to our health. In this blog post, we'll explore the benefits of outdoor recreation and why it's important to incorporate it into our daily lives. We'll also discuss the role of outdoor leaders in promoting a more active lifestyle. Improved Physical Health Outdoor recreation is an excellent way to improve physical health. Activities such as hiking, cycling, and swimming can help increase cardiovascular fitness, improve muscle strength, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. In addition, spending time outdoors can help boost vitamin D levels, which is essential for healthy bones and a strong immune system. Getting enough sunlight also helps regulate our body's circadian rhythm, which can improve sleep quality and overall well-being. Mental Health Benefits Spending time outdoors also has significant mental health benefits. It has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, and improve overall mood and well-being. One study found that spending time in nature can help improve cognitive function and memory. Another study found that spending just 20 minutes in nature can help reduce cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress. Social Benefits Outdoor recreation is also a great way to build social connections. It provides an opportunity to spend quality time with friends and family, meet new people, and form new relationships. Activities such as team sports and group hikes can help build teamwork and leadership skills, and provide a sense of community and belonging. Environmental Awareness Spending time outdoors can also help raise awareness about environmental issues and encourage conservation efforts. It provides an opportunity to learn about the natural world and appreciate the beauty and diversity of our planet. Outdoor recreation can also be used as a tool to promote sustainable living and reduce our carbon footprint. Activities such as biking, walking, and using public transportation can help reduce our dependence on cars and contribute to a cleaner, healthier environment. The Role of Outdoor Leaders While the benefits of outdoor recreation are clear, it's important to have skilled outdoor leaders to guide and facilitate these activities. Outdoor leaders play a critical role in promoting safe and responsible outdoor recreation, and ensuring that participants have a positive and rewarding experience. Outdoor leaders have a deep understanding of the natural environment and are trained to manage and mitigate risks associated with outdoor activities. They also have strong communication and leadership skills, and can facilitate team-building activities and promote environmental awareness. In addition, outdoor leaders can provide guidance and support to individuals who may be new to outdoor recreation or facing physical or mental health challenges. They can help create a supportive and inclusive environment that encourages individuals to step outside their comfort zones and achieve their goals. Conclusion In conclusion, outdoor recreation offers a wide range of physical, mental, social, and environmental benefits. It provides an opportunity to connect with nature, build relationships, and promote a healthier, more active lifestyle. However, to fully realize these benefits, it's important to have skilled outdoor leaders who can facilitate safe and responsible outdoor recreation, and create a positive and rewarding experience for participants. So, the next time you find yourself glued to a screen, consider taking a break and spending some time outdoors. Whether it's a hike, a bike ride, or a picnic in the park, you'll be doing your body and mind a favor. And if you're looking to take your outdoor recreation to the next level, consider working with an outdoor leader who can help you achieve your goals and realize your
by Mark Mandeno 14 April 2023
The Value of Outdoor Leadership Skills for Your Career