Whenua Iti Outdoors is proud to announce the establishment of its first-ever Youth Leadership Council a new initiative designed to ensure youth voices are central to the development of experiential outdoor education programmes across Te Tauihu (the top of the South Island).

Earlier this month, Whenua Iti hosted a group of rangatahi representing secondary schools from across the region for the Council’s inaugural gathering. The Youth Leadership Council brings together young leaders from diverse backgrounds to create a collaborative forum where they can directly shape programmes that reflect their needs, interests, and aspirations both now and into the future.

The formation of the Youth Leadership Council is part of Whenua Iti’s ongoing commitment to co-designing programmes that are relevant, inclusive, and empowering. The initial two-day hui was a milestone moment, filled with connection and inspiration, as council members participated in team-building activities and shared valuable insights about the future of youth development programming.

Mark Bruce-Miller, CEO of Whenua Iti Outdoors, was thrilled to get this initiative underway, "The Youth Leadership Council has been established to help shape the future of youth development programmes at Whenua Iti Outdoors, ensuring that the voices and perspectives of young people continue to be at the centre of what we do. Their insights and experiences will be invaluable in guiding our thinking for future programme development and making our programmes even more impactful."

“We are excited to see how these young leaders will inform the next chapter of experiential education at Whenua Iti Outdoors and create lasting positive impact for youth across Te Tauihu.”

The Council intends to meet several times each year, providing ongoing input and guidance to ensure Whenua Iti’s youth-focused initiatives continue to evolve and respond to the changing needs of young people.

Whenua Iti extends heartfelt thanks to the secondary schools that have supported this initiative and encouraged their students to step into leadership roles: Motueka High School, Waimea College, Garin College, Nayland College, Nelson College, and Golden Bay High School.

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