Students to take on Great Barrier Island challenge

Ten secondary schools from Auckland and Northland have been invited to participate in the Get2Go final in December.

---------------------------------

Sport and Recreation Minister Trevor Mallard is delighted to announce that ten secondary schools from Auckland and Northland have been invited to participate in the Get2Go final in December.

The five-day team adventure event, held at the new Sir Edmund Hillary Outdoor Pursuits Centre on Great Barrier Island from 11 - 15 December, will challenge students both mentally and physically in a range of land and aquatic-based outdoor activities.

"This is a thrilling adventure for young teenagers. You never know, the next Sir Edmund Hillary might be among them," said Trevor Mallard.

Get2Go has been developed by government agency Sport and Recreation New Zealand (SPARC) and the Outdoor Pursuits Centre to encourage young people's participation in outdoor pursuit activities. Over 350 students participated in the regional challenges, which incorporated a series of events, including rock climbing, orienteering, mountain biking, and kayaking.

Trevor Mallard said the challenges were a great success and a huge hit with the year nine and ten students.

"While there was a lot of fun to be had, participants were learning invaluable skills that will allow them to continue to have fun and be active in New Zealand's great outdoors," said Trevor Mallard.

The following schools were chosen for the final because of their excellent performances in the regional Get2Go challenges held throughout the Auckland and Northland regions over the last few weeks: Auckland Schools Hebron Christian College, St Cuthbert's College, Massey High School, Long Bay College, Wentworth College, Elim Christian School and Rosehill College, and Northland schools Whangarei Boys' High School, Whangarei Girls' High School, and Te Kura Kaupapa O Te Rangi Aniwaniwa (Awanui).

Trevor Mallard said the Labour-led government was committed to providing Kiwi kids with opportunities that would encourage them to lead healthy and active lifestyles. Last month saw the launch of Mission-On - a $67 million government-wide package of initiatives to help young New Zealanders improve their nutrition and be more active.

SPARC is the government agency charged with promoting, encouraging and supporting sport and physical recreation in New Zealand. For more information, visit www.sparc.org.nz

ENDS

© Scoop Media