the great barrier experience 2016

Hillcrest High School
Te Kura Tuarau o Tihipuke
The Year 10 Great Barrier Experience
THE
GREAT BARRIER
EXPERIENCE
2016
Welcome to the Great Barrier Experience
This unique five week experience has been created through the collaborative work of
the Sir Edmund Hillary Outdoor Pursuits Centre and Hillcrest High School.
A programme of learning has been devised that aims to create personal growth through
participation in the outdoor pursuits offered in the pristine environment of the Great
Barrier Island while also engaging in a robust educational programme that is interactive,
investigative and integrates the core subjects of English, Maths, Social Studies and
Science.
AN OVERVIEW:
During the five week programme, your son/daughter will be under the guidance of two
teachers from HHS and two instructors from the Sir Edmund Hillary Outdoor Pursuits
Centre. The students will be guided through a range of outdoor pursuits ranging from
sea kayaking, sailing, tramping, rock climbing, abseiling, navigation, camp craft, surf
kayaking, coasteering and high ropes course.
They will engage in a series of learning opportunities while on the Island that revolve
around the issues of cultural, economic, social and environmental sustainability. We
have set up a range of interactive experiences that will see the students work in the
conservation area with DOC and the Glenfern Sanctuary. http://www.glenfern.org.nz/
They will principally be involved in pest eradication and habitat restoration projects.
The students will assess the infrastructure systems on an Island that has no power, water
or sewage systems and will examine how these systems impact or sustain the local
inhabitants of the Island. We have set up interactive opportunities with the local
primary school, locals, the artistic community and the Motairehe Marae; experiences
that will help the students to understand the many issues that serve to advantage and
disadvantage Great Barrier as a place to live, work and grow. Students will be required
to present to parents, teachers and friends their findings and conclusions during a
graduation evening usually set three school weeks after their return.
During their time on the Island the students will be required to work cooperatively as a
team as they organise, order and prepare food. All food will need to be freighted from
the mainland with students involved in all aspects of the process. Independence and life
skills will be encouraged as students take responsibility for personal hygiene, living
quarters, washing, gardening, fishing and communication with Hillcrest High School
staff, the Orama community, each other, Hillary Outdoors staff and home.
Students will either fly or travel by boat to Great Barrier Island.
The Great Barrier Experience
in the spirit of Sir Edmund Hillary
Life Skills
Sustainability
Food preparation, hygiene,
independent living, contact with
home.

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

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Values
Resilience
Self-management
Interpersonal relations
Problem solving
Environmental:
Personal empowerment
Ecological literacy and care
Biodiversity projects
Habitat restoration
Infrastructure:
NZ Curriculum Key
Competencies:
Outdoor
Relating to Others; Managing
Self; Thinking; Participating and
Contributing; Using Language,
Community
Skills Symbols and Text
Adventures in sea kayaking, sailing,
tramping, rock climbing, abseiling,
navigation, campcraft, surf kayaking,
snorkelling, coasteering, high ropes.





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Alternative power sources
Water supply
Sewage treatment
Gardening
Teamwork
Leadership
Communication
Conflict resolution
Reflection
Fitness
Social:
Orama community
Okiwi School
Great Barrier community
Economic survival on a remote island
Cultural:
Marae stay
Colonial history
Resourceful and independent
islanders
GREAT
BARRIER
EXPERIENCE
LOGISTICAL ASPECTS
STAFF PROFILE
Hillary Outdoors Instructors/Managers
Gemma Parkin – Centre Manager – Hillary Outdoors
Gemma has been working in outdoor education since 2003 and enjoys
being part of an industry which challenges, inspires and develops
people. She is impressed by the enthusiasm and focus the Hillary
Outdoors team has for what they are doing, and the welcoming
feeling of the wider community. “Programmes at Great Barrier aren’t
just about great activities in a beautiful place, they connect to the
curriculum, the environment around us, and the people around us.
The whole island supports what these students are here to achieve. It’s a special
place to be.”
Tom Denley - Hillary Outdoors Instructor
Tom has an association with Hillcrest High School in that he has worked
over the last two years as an instructor on the Year 13 Student Leader
Programme also centered at Great Barrier Island. We were very
impressed with his style and are pleased to have him working on this
programme. Tom holds a certificate in Outdoor Leadership and a
certificate in Ski Patrol. He has worked at both the Central Plateau and
Great Barrier Outdoor Pursuits Centre, Absolute Adventures, Waitomo,
Castle Rock Adventures Ltd, Full on NZ in Italy, and as a ski instructor/patrol at
Whistler Blackcomb Ski Resort and Treble Cone. Tom has a passion for climbing, skiing
and sea kayaking.
Tesh Little - Hillary Outdoors Instructor
Tesh (short for Leticia) is in her third year of instructing for OPC,
having worked for both OPC Tongariro and OPC Great Barrier. She has
a degree in Outdoor Education and Adventure Recreation from CPIT,
and has also worked as an instructor in the UK. Tesh hold NZOIA
qualifications in rock and bush. She is originally from Auckland.
Jamie McMillan - Hillary Outdoors Instructor
Jamie is Scottish and is a highly qualified outdoor instructor, holding
qualifications in sailing, diving, kayak, mountain and snow. He has
worked at the Blairvadach Outdoor Education Centre in Scotland and
holds a BSc (Hon) in Sports Coaching and Development. His partner Meri
is Finnish and currently works in the tourism industry.
Roger Miller - Hillary Outdoors Instructor
Roger is the Programme Manager at OPC Great Barrier. He is a qualified
outdoor education teacher, and arrived at OPC in October 2013. He has
worked as an outdoor instructor, kayak guide and teacher, most recently
completing 5 years work teaching in an international school in Belgium.
He lives on site with his Belgian wife Charlotte and their two girls.
BOYS GBE Staff
Nick Bryant - HHS Staff - Course 1 - Boys
This is Nick Bryant’s fourth Great Barrier Experience. He joined
Hillcrest High School in 2005 and is currently the Year 11 Dean. Nick
teaches Biology, Science and ICT. He has also taught Maths. Nick has
coached football at Hillcrest High since 2005, taking the boys 2nd XI
for the past 3 years. He has attended and helped organise many
EOTC events, including Year 10 camps, the Southern Skies
tournament in Brisbane, senior Biology trips to Pureora, Thames
mangroves, Waikato streams, the Auckland zoo, Hamilton Museum,
the Liggins institute and Drama trips to the Sheilah Wynn Shakespeare festival in
Wellington. He travelled around Vietnam in January 2012 and has spent time in
Germany, Switzerland, Japan, Turkey and the UK.
Hans Uivel - HHS Staff - Course 1 - Boys
Hans Uivel has been teaching at Hillcrest High School for 20 years
during which time he has been the Head of outdoor Education, Head
of the PE and Health faculty and the Co-Ordinator for the Great
Barrier Experience. He has always been a passionate person in the
outdoors enjoying tramping, mountaineering, rock climbing, caving,
mountain biking, kayaking and skiing.Hans believes strongly in the
ability of outdoor pursuits to challenge and enhance the lives of
young people and he is looking forward to spending time on the
Island with the boys.
Shannon Andrews - HHS Staff - Course 1 – Boys
Shannon Andrews has been a teacher of Science and Chemistry at
Hillcrest High School for the past 7 years. He is the current Head of
Senior Science, coaches and manages the Girls 1st XI Cricket Team
and is the Staff Representative on the Board of Trustees. He is
passionate about the outdoors and enjoys sailing, hiking and
fishing. Shannon recently accompanied 17 Hillcrest students on a
trip through Cambodia and Thailand, which included staying
overnight in hammocks and volunteering at an orphanage. His wife,
Emma is a research scientist at the University of Waikato.
Girls GBE Staff
Karllie Clifton - HHS Staff - Course 2 – Girls
Karllie Clifton has been teaching at Hillcrest High School for over 12
years. She is a big supporter of outdoor education having attended the
Great Barrier Experience last year, many school camps/trips and
initiating the Year 9 trips to Tauwhare Marae in 2011. Karllie is
currently the Year 13 Dean, teacher in charge of volleyball and coach
of the Senior A Volleyball Girls. She is a keen camper and tramper,
loves the outdoors and is always looking for an adventure. Karllie is
really excited to be spending 5 weeks on Great Barrier Island with the girls this year
Katrina Pollard - HHS Staff - Course 2 – Girls
Katrina Pollard is the Head of Outdoor Education at Hillcrest High
School. Prior to joining the staff at Hillcrest Katrina was the Teacher
in Charge of Outdoor Education and OC in a North Canterbury high
school. Katrina has travelled overseas developing her skills in the
outdoors and has worked as a guide and outdoor instructor. Katrina is
very passionate about the outdoors, any chance she gets she will be
out there climbing a rock face, paddling a boat or hiking in the
mountains. Katrina is really looking forward to spending five weeks on Great Barrier
Island with the girls. This programme inspired Katrina to apply for a position at
Hillcrest
Sharon Sayer - HHS Staff - Course 2 – Girls
Sharon Sayer jolined the Hillcrest High School faculty after working as
a microbiologist at AgResearch. Currently a Year 11 Form Teacher, Mrs
Sayer enjoys the many activities and field trips that the Biology
Department undertakes and has a love of plants, particularly native
ones. Mrs Sayer is also a keen fisher and is often successful! She is
looking forward to this opportunity to spend time in a beautiful
environment with amazing students.
THE GREAT BARRIER EXPERIENCE
TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS - GIRLS
COURSE ONE
Sealink Ferry
Wynyard Wharf, Brigham Street
Sealink Ferry
Wynyard Wharf, Brigham Street
Depart Sunday 17 April
8.00 am
Arrive Friday 20 May
7.30 pm
Wynyard Wharf – Directions to Sealink Ferry
Sealink Ferry will be at Wynyard Wharf, Brigham Street, Auckland
The Sealink Ferry transports students to and from the Island departing from Wynyard
Wharf. Upon arrival students will travel by bus from Tryphena to Hillary Outdoors
Education Centre.
THE GREAT BARRIER EXPERIENCE
TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS - BOYS
COURSE TWO
Sealink Ferry
Wynyard Wharf, Brigham Street
Sealink Ferry
Wynyard Wharf, Brigham Street
Depart Sunday 22 May
8.00 am
Arrive Friday 24 June
7.30 pm
Wynyard Wharf – Directions to Sealink Ferry
Sealink Ferry will be at Wynyard Wharf, Brigham Street, Auckland
LOGISTICAL ARRANGEMENTS
Hillary Outdoors
Great Barrier Island
Hillary Outdoors Great Barrier is located on the edge of Karaka Bay, Great Barrier
Island in the Hauraki Gulf. Great Barrier Island is the guardian of the gulf. Exposed to
rugged elements, it shields the inner islands and offers a variety of environments that
challenge and inspire.
Hillary Outdoors students and staff are privileged to have access to this world-class
outdoor classroom right on Auckland’s doorstep. The island is just 35km long and 15km
at its widest point.
The Orama Trust hosts Hillary Outdoors Education Centre on their 230 hectare property
at Karaka Bay, 4km from Port Fitzroy, and surrounded by pastureland, regenerating
indigenous bush and mature trees.
This centre offers a tranquil and unique environment for a range of groups, from
schools to business and management training groups. The main centre includes a large
communal kitchen, dining hall, indoor gymnasium, shop, conference facilities and
lounge.
FACILITIES
The students have access to a well set-up training room, with whiteboards, work tables
and modern audiovisual equipment. The lounge, in the second storey of the Main
Lodge, has a fantastic view out over Karaka Bay. Hillary Outdoors has their gear stored
in two purpose built storage facilities. The main shed is right at the waters edge, while
their sailing dinghies are stored at Barbecue Bay, a short walk or boat trip around the
coast.
On-site there is a purpose built boat-ramp, wharf and floating pontoon.
EQUIPMENT
Hillary Outdoors have a comprehensive range of wetsuits, lifejackets, thermals, spray
jackets, raincoats, packs, tents, sleeping bags, cookers, etc… their fleet of modern
4WD vehicles is ideally suited to the Barrier’s rough roads! They use outboard-powered
inflatables as safety boats and coach boats, to support our water-based programmes, in
particular sailing.
They use Perception sea kayaks and surf kayaks, for their stability, ease of use and
reliability. Double sea kayaks are very stable and hold a huge amount of gear. They
also have single sea kayaks for more experienced paddlers.
Sit-on-top kayaks are the easiest way to get out on the water fast. Perception Flows
are a purpose-built surf kayak, but they are also very stable on flat water and are a
perfect fishing platform. In the surf, they make learning to ride a wave incredibly easy.
In the right conditions, you’ll see Hillary Outdoors instructors getting great down-theline rides, carving turns and doing back-loops.
Topper Topazes are designed as an easy entry-level sailing boat with the potential for
high performance. They carry a jib (optional) and even a gennaker (experts only!). The
12-foot Fyran dinghies are equipped with anchors, bailers and oars. If venturing further
afield Hillary Outdoors supplies flares and charts with a full briefing and rescue boat
safety back-up.
Our Equipment
Wharf & Pontoon
12 Topaz Yachts
20 Surf Kayaks
20 Double Seakayaks
5 Dinghies
The Big Gear Shed
2 Support Boats
9 Single Seakayaks
The Lady Hillary – 27 pax
ACCOMMODATION
The school group accommodation is the Pines Cabins with 4-bunk rooms. We will be
accommodating two students in each 4 berth room so as to give the students adequate
privacy and storage space over the five week period. The selection of rooming partners
will be done in consultation with staff at HHS. The Pines Cabins bathroom has solar
water heating and supplies a healthy amount of hot water.
WASHING
There are coin operated machines costing $2 per wash. Students are encouraged to do
their washing on a regular basis as personal hygiene in this communal setting is very
important. HHS staff will supply the $2 coins to students as required. There is an
expectation that students wash on a regular basis (minimum twice a week).
MEALS
Preparation and collection of food is an area of camp for which the students are
responsible. We are committed to fostering independence and we believe this is a
great area to start.
There are three activity groups of ten. Each group will contribute two of its members
each week to plan, order, collect, store and cook meals for 32 (6 students).

They will be provided with recipe planners and a menu to help with the preparation
of food each day.
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The students will meet the boat from Auckland, on a fortnightly basis, together
with a staff member to collect the food that has been ordered and will be needed
by the group over the following fortnight.
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Students will be able to use the variety of foods available, to modify the meals
outlined on the menu planner, to accommodate specific needs such as vegetarian.

Mains: Vegetable frittata, pizza, spaghetti bolognaise, cottage pie, macaroni
cheese, hamburgers, chicken curry, sausages, nachos, pita bread/chicken nugget
pockets, sweet n sour pork, chicken chow mien (these can all be supplemented with
potato/pasta/vegetables/pumpkin/rice).

Lunch: Filled rolls/fruit/wraps/muesli slice/muffins (away from Hillary Outdoors
options), pizza, hotdogs, pancakes, scones, sandwiches, muffins, toasted sandwich,
cheese on toast, filled rolls (at Hillary Outdoors options).

Breakfast: Corn flakes/porridge/rice bubbles/toast/cream corn cheese toasties,
baked beans/spaghetti/scrambled eggs.
The staff will monitor the cooking process with adherence to robust hygiene standards
a requirement. It is vital that students have sufficient quality food to ensure that they
have the energy levels required to get through each day. Staff and instructors will
monitor and advise the students as necessary. Students may bring home baking but
may not bring chocolate, chewing gum or soft drinks. We ask that parents send one
more food parcel over the period of the course.
THE ACTIVITY SCHEDULE

You can expect to be out in the wilderness or working on outdoor projects from 9am
to 5pm most days, and you will take lunch and snacks with you.

During expeditions you will be away from the centre with your instructor, for up to
three days

While you are in the outdoors you will normally be in a group of 10 with an instructor
or teacher. This group of 10 will remain the same for the duration of the programme

There will also be some classroom time during which you will work on the educational
outcomes listed in the educational learning section of this document, your personal
journals and the creation of your group presentation (to be delivered to
parents/teachers/family/peers upon your return to school).
A sample schedule for activities is shown on the next page and you should note
that it is very busy. Healthy eating, reasonable fitness levels and responsible
sleeping habits are very important if the students are to make the most of the
opportunities made available on this course.
GROUP TWO - SAMPLE
Monday
Grp 1
Date
am
pm
eve
pm
eve
pm
eve
Intros,
settle in
Power &
water
tour
Intros,
settle in
Power &
water
tour
Duty
training
Duty
training
Duty
training
Expdn
One
Expdn
One
Expdn
One
pm
eve
Expdn
One
Expdn
One
Expdn
One
Expdn
Two
Expdn
Two
Expdn
Two
Date
Expdn 3
Solo
Expdn 3
Solo
Expdn 3
Solo
Grp 1
Grp 2
Grp 3
Grp 1
28 May
Grp 2
Grp 3
Grp 1
29 May
Grp 2
Grp 3
Grp 1
30 May
Grp 2
Grp 3
31 May
Team
develop.
Team
develop.
Orama
project
Orama
project
Orama
project
Classrm
Classrm
Classrm
Team
develop.
Boat
handling
Outdoor
Activity
Outdoor
Activity
Outdoor
Activity
Boat
handling
Get 2 Go
activity
Get 2 Go
activity
Get 2 Go
activity
Boat
handling
Outdoor
Activity
Outdoor
Activity
Orama
project
Orama
project
Orama
project
Garden
Garden
Garden
Outdoor
Activity
Boat
handling
Outdoor
Activity
Outdoor
Activity
Outdoor
Activity
Boat
handling
Systems
Routines
Food
Systems
Routines
Food
Systems
Routines
Food
Set up
journals
Set up
journals
Set up
journals
Enviro
Presentn
Enviro
Presentn
Enviro
Presentn
Food /
Personal
Food /
Personal
Food /
Personal
Movie
night
Movie
night
Movie
night
Food /
Personal
Food /
Personal
Food /
Personal
Expdn
One
Expdn
One
Food /
Personal
Expdn
One
Expdn
One
Food /
Personal
3 Jun
Expdn
One
Expdn
One
Food /
Personal
Expdn
Two
Expdn
Two
Food /
Personal
Expdn
Two
Expdn
Two
Food /
Personal
Expdn 3
Solo
Expdn 3
Solo
Food /
Personal
22 Jun
Expdn 3
Solo
Expdn 3
Solo
Food /
Personal
4 Jun
Project
Classrm
Project
Classrm
Project
Project
Project
Project
Project
Project
Project
Project
Project
Food /
Personal
Food /
Personal
Food /
Personal
Food /
Personal
Food /
Personal
Food /
Personal
10 Jun
Expdn
Two
Expdn
Two
Food /
Personal
Outdoor
Activity
Outdoor
Activity
Team
develop.
Teacher
Outdoors
Instructor
presentn
Classrm
Classrm
Classrm
Teacher
Outdoors
Team
develop.
Teacher
Outdoors
Team
develop.
Teacher
Outdoors
Food /
Personal
Outdoor
Activity
Outdoor
Activity
Food /
Personal
Classrm
Outdoor
Activity
Outdoor
Activity
Instructor
presentn
Outdoor
Activity
Outdoor
Activity
Movie
night
Teacher
Outdoors
Food /
Personal
Classrm
Classrm
Okiwi
School
Project
Project
Project
Marae
Marae
Marae
Marae
Marae
Marae
Classrm
Classrm
Classrm
Project
Project
Project
Food /
Personal
Food /
Personal
Food /
Personal
Environ
Presentn
Enviro
Presentn
Enviro
Presentn
Personal/
Rest/Fish
Teacher
Outdoors
Food /
Personal
25 Jun
Outdoor
Activity
Outdoor
Activity
Food /
Personal
Reflectn/
stud pres
Reflectn/
stud pres
Reflectn/
stud pres
Exped
planning
Exped
planning
Exped
planning
Final
Exped
Final
Exped
Final
Exped
Final
Exped
Final
Exped
Final
Exped
pm
Reflectn/
stud pres
Reflectn/
stud pres
Reflectn/
stud pres
Final
Exped
Final
Exped
Final
Exped
Final
Exped
Final
Exped
Final
Exped
Final
Exped
Final
Exped
Final
Exped
eve
Food /
Personal
Food /
Personal
Food /
Personal
Final
Exped
Final
Exped
Final
Exped
Final
Exped
Final
Exped
Final
Exped
Final
Exped
Final
Exped
Final
Exped
Course
summary
Prize
giving,
home
Course
summary
Prize
giving,
home
Outdoor
Activity
Outdoor
Activity
Food /
Personal
Classrm
Teacher
Outdoors
Food /
Personal
Course
summary
Prize
giving,
home
Outdoor
Activity
Outdoor
Activity
Food /
Personal
Marae
Marae
Classrm
Classrm
Teacher
led/proj.
Movie
night
Teacher
led/proj.
Movie
night
Teacher
led/proj.
Movie
night
Teacher
Outdoors
Food /
Personal
Teacher
Outdoors
Food /
Personal
Outdoor
Activity
Outdoor
Activity
Movie
night
Classrm
Teacher
Outdoors
Movie
night
Classrm
Teacher
Outdoors
Food /
Personal
14 Jun
20 Jun
26 Jun
am
Teacher
Outdoors
Movie
night
Outdoor
Activity
Outdoor
Activity
Movie
night
Marae
19 Jun
Okiwi
School
Classrm
7 Jun
13 Jun
Classrm
18 Jun
24 Jun
Outdoor
Activity
Outdoor
Activity
Instructor
presentn
6 Jun
12 Jun
Okiwi
School
23 Jun
Classrm
11 Jun
17 Jun
Expdn 3
Solo
Expdn 3
Solo
Food /
Personal
5 Jun
Project
Classrm
16 Jun
Expdn 3
Solo
Expdn 3
Solo
Expdn 3
Solo
Grp 1
Sunday
Boat
handling
9 Jun
Expdn
Two
Expdn
Two
Expdn
Two
Grp 3
27 May
2 Jun
Expdn
One
Expdn
One
Expdn
One
Grp 2
Saturday
Classrm
15 Jun
Expdn 3
Solo
Expdn 3
Solo
Expdn 3
Solo
Grp 3
Friday
Classrm
8 Jun
Expdn
Two
Expdn
Two
Expdn
Two
Grp 2
Thursday
Classrm
1 Jun
Date
am
Grp 1
Wednesday
26 May
Intros,
settle in
Power &
water
tour
Date
am
Grp 3
25 May
Date
am
Grp 2
Tuesday
Outdoor
Activity
Outdoor
Activity
Food /
Personal
21 Jun
Personal/
Rest/Fish
Teacher
Outdoors
Movie
night
Classrm
Teacher
Outdoors
Food /
Personal
Personal/
Rest/Fish
Teacher
Outdoors
Food /
Personal
Outdoor
Activity
Outdoor
Activity
Food /
Personal
KEEPING YOU SAFE
Hillary Outdoors has an extensive Safety Management System designed to keep you safe.
You can have a look at parts of this system on our webpage,
www.hillaryoutdoors.co.nz/safety. Instructors are trained to put this system into action
during activities. They will tell you about any hazards you may come across and how to
manage them. You are also welcome to ask them any questions if you feel unsure during
the week. It is up to you whether you take part in an activity, however Hillary Outdoors
staff and your team mates will support and encourage you to participate to a level which
challenges you. You play a major role in keeping yourself safe, so make sure you
understand the boundaries below and those your instructor and school staff will set
during the week.
ELECTRONIC DEVICES
 Ipods:
NO ipods or gaming consoles of any type are to be taken.
STUDENT COMMUNICATION
 Cell phones:
NO cell phones are to be taken.
 Calling home:
The HHS staff will have a calling card for student use and students will be allocated a
night each week on which to contact home. So parents should expect one call home a
week. We will try and determine the specific night and time with parents, prior to
departure. A back up time will also be determined as at times expeditions may interfere
with our phone schedule.
PARENTAL COMMUNICATION
 We believe that communication with home should be initiated by the students within
the guidelines noted above.
 If a student has a need to communicate outside of those guidelines, the call should be
initiated through a teacher.
 If a parent has an urgent need to contact their child, we ask that you initiate that
contact through Mr Uivel on 0273543560 who will contact the Island to arrange
contact.
 As a very last resort parents can contact the Hillary Outdoors Manager on 09 4290762
during work hours or at Gemma’s home on 09 4290873. These numbers should only be
used in an emergency if Mr Uivel is unavailable and cannot be contacted.
FACEBOOK COMMUNICATION
www.facebook.com/HHSGreatBarrierIslandGirlsTrip2016
www.facebook.com/HHSGreatBarrierIslandBoysTrip2016
A facebook page is set up for each group that goes to Great Barrier so parents are kept
informed.
COMPLAINT PROCEDURES
If you have any issues with the quality of the programme you are attending at Hillary
Outdoors these can be addressed to the Centre Manager or Hillcrest staff, either in
person or in writing.
SHOP
There is a small shop run by Orama that sells T-shirts, hats, gifts, sun screen, chocolate,
chips, juice, and some personal items. For more information on Orama go to
www.orama.org.nz. Students can utilise the shop once a week and may not exceed a
budget of $10 per week. They can purchase one drink and one other food item. This
budget restriction does not preclude them from buying items such as batteries,
shampoo, Hillary Outdoor hoodies, etc.
THE HILLARY OUTDOORS CODE OF CONDUCT
When you come to Hillary Outdoors and Orama we welcome you as a part of our
community.
We expect everyone in our community to make a positive contribution and to do their
best to live within our values.
We also ask you to:



Follow all safety instructions
Not act in any way which puts yourself or others in danger
Declare any medical, or other conditions that could affect your participation
Smoking, drugs, alcohol and sexual relationships are all prohibited.
School rules apply whilst you are here.
Three non-negotiables that we expect from you for the duration of this course.
1. Care and respect for yourself
You will do your utmost to look after your own safety and well-being. This includes
eating properly, dressing appropriately, sleeping at night and asking questions when
unsure.
2. Care and respect for others
You will look after others you come into contact with, and offer support where
needed.
You will abide by the bed times and the out-of-bounds areas set by staff on the
programme. You will act in a considerate way to other members of the community,
including your peers, Hillary Outdoors staff, Hillcrest staff and the Orama community.
You will participate actively in all aspects of the programme, including duties such as
cooking and cleaning
3. Care and respect for the environment
You will take care to do as little damage as possible to the environment - leaving all
living and non-living things in a state to be enjoyed by others in the future.
Community Life
You will be sharing the site in close proximity with members of the staff and community
of both Hillary Outdoors and Orama. This includes families with young children. Loud or
inappropriate music/noise (especially bad language) would have a significant effect on
other members of the community. Inappropriate behaviour after the designated 'lights
out' time in the evenings will be considered as a serious breach of the Code of Conduct.
Discipline and Consequences
There will be consequences to breaking the Code of Conduct, or to behaving in a way
which is not aligned with the Hillary Outdoors or Hillcrest values or safety standards.
Some of these consequences could include:





apology to other parties
removal of privileges e.g. cellphone use, access to shop,
additional duties around the centre
exclusion from certain activities
returned home at your own cost
SICK STUDENTS
It is possible that students will fall sick or suffer an injury during their time here. There
are Hillary Outdoors staff that have Pre-Hospital Emergency Care training. Great Barrier
Island has a Medical Centre staffed by doctors in Claris, 45 minutes drive away. In Port
Fitzroy, 15 minutes drive away, there is a medical centre staffed by a district nurse. The
threshold for a helicopter evacuation is significantly lower on Great Barrier than it is on
the mainland.
For a sick student, the Hillary Outdoors and Hillcrest staff will consider the following:

Do they need immediate professional medical attention, beyond what can be
provided at the centre?
In the first instance we will contact the Port Fitzroy Medical Centre. Subject to
their advice, or in the case of no response, we will call the Claris Medical Centre or
on-call doctor. If those options fail, we will call 111.

Will they get better on site?
If we believe this to be the case, they may not be taking part in the programme
temporarily. In this case they will stay at the centre with a responsible adult
delegated to supervise them. In some situations they will be better off in an
isolated room, for example to prevent the spread of a contagious illness such as
the flu. A room in the main accommodation building will be set aside, that has easy
inside access to toilets and a comfortable lounge, and where periodic checking-up
is easy.

What happens if they need to return home?
Transport costs back to the mainland (for example a flight) are to be covered by
the family of the student. In the case of an emergency, costs are covered by ACC.
Hillary Outdoors will cover any costs of vehicle transport on the island. Programme
costs for their time away are not reimbursable.

If they return home to recuperate, will they return to the programme?
This decision will be made in conjunction with caregivers and the student. Every
effort will be made to enable a student to re-join the programme at the cost of the
family of the student.
WHAT GROUP AM I IN?
In the table below you will find who you will be sharing a bunkroom with (match your
number with that of your roomie), who is in your activity group and who are the five
other students you will be sharing cooking duties with for a week.
COURSE ONE - GIRLS
Rooming with
SURNAME
First
Activity Group
1
1
1
1
2
1
2
1
3
1
3
1
4
1
4
1
5
1
5
1
6
2
6
2
7
2
7
2
8
2
8
2
9
2
9
2
10
2
10
2
11
3
11
3
12
3
12
3
13
3
13
3
14
3
14
3
15
3
15
3
Cooking Group
Week…
1
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
4
5
WHAT GROUP AM I IN?
In the table below you will find who you will be sharing a bunkroom with (match your
number with that of your roomie), who is in your activity group and who are the five
other students you will be sharing cooking duties with for a week.
COURSE TWO - BOYS
Rooming with
SURNAME
First
Activity Group
1
1
1
1
2
1
2
1
3
1
3
1
4
1
4
1
5
1
5
1
6
2
6
2
7
2
7
2
8
2
8
2
9
2
9
2
10
2
10
2
11
3
11
3
12
3
12
3
13
3
13
3
14
3
14
3
15
3
15
3
Cooking Group
Week
1
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
4
2
What to Bring to Hillary Outdoors
Here is a list of gear you will need for your time at Hillary Outdoors. You need to have this
amount as a minimum. What you don’t have, try to borrow from friends and family. We can lend
you the items listed at the bottom (included in the cost), but please bring your own if you have
them as these will be more comfortable. We highly recommend bringing your own thermals
(polypro) and fleece as a minimum.
Essential:
Warm hat: fleece or wool
Thermal top and pants (2): An under layer of polyester / polypro, or wool /fleece
Wool or fleece jersey (2)
Fleece pants: polyester insulating fleece, not cotton
Waterproof jacket and trousers: Must have a hood and be waterproof
Socks (4): Thick, not cotton
Sturdy trainers these will be used regularly in the water, and must be lace-up or other
secure attachment system
Walking boots or shoes suitable for tramping and garden work
Large pack: 65 litres+ to fit sleeping bag, clothes and extra gear for an overnight trip
Pack liner: Large plastic bags (eg rubbish bags) x3 to fit sleeping bag and clothes
First aid kit: With personal medications, plasters etc
Drink bottle: 1 litre or more is best
Sleeping bag + liner: Warmer is better especially in winter
Wetsuit: a light surfing steamer is not warm enough, unless an OPC wetsuit top is added.
Sunglasses, sun hat + suncream
Swimming outfit + two towels
Shorts and t-shirts + extras
Casual clothes and shoes for evening
Pillow case
Torch & batteries, plenty of spare batteries
Bowl, mug and cutlery Plastic or similar. For overnight expeditions only.
Underwear and toiletries
Duvet/sleeping bag. You can elect to sleep for the five weeks in a sleeping bag but we
suggest sheets and a duvet would be more practical and cosier. For expeditions a warm
sleeping bag would be handy or you can elect to use one of the many Hillary Outdoors
supply. Bring a sleeping bag liner (sew a single sheet into a sleeping bag shape).
Pen and note paper
USB stick (8 mb or greater) for storing photos and group presentations
Optional but very helpful!:
Camera
Gumboots
Small day pack
Work gloves
\
Washing Pegs
Stamps and letter writing material
We can lend you one of each item below if you don't have your own (e.g. one fleece top):
Sleeping Bag
Fleece top
Thermal top
Raincoat and over-trousers
Large Pack
Thermal bottoms
Woollen hat
Sunglasses
Wetsuit bottom - short legs and no arms. Wetsuit top - zip-up long sleeves

If you lose items or damage them through misuse you will be responsible for payment of
replacement costs.
 No cotton clothing for certain activities.
 All gear may get wet and dirty.
 Label all your clothing and equipment. If you accidentally leave gear behind, contact us
immediately and we will see if we can locate it.
 Participants’ personal effects are NOT covered by our insurance policy. You should arrange your
own.
GREAT
BARRIER
EXPERIENCE
PRACTICAL ASPECTS
During the five week programme we have arranged a programme that involves the
following practical elements:

Outdoor Activities. These are done under the guidance of qualified Hillary Outdoors staff
and could involve a range of the following outdoor pursuits: sea kayaking, sailing,
tramping, rock climbing, abseiling, navigation, campcraft, surf kayaking, coasteering,
high ropes course.

Expedition: These will be two and three day trips away from the centre. The students
will be expected to utilise the skills learnt together with the previous experiences
undertaken to finish the course by planning and implementing their final three day
expedition.

Environmental Project: Each of the activity groups will be assigned an environmental
project. Group one and two will be assigned to the Glenfern Sanctuary to undertake pest
eradication and habitat restoration while group three will be working with DOC and the
Orama community to do habitat restoration for the Brown Teal population. This work will
be undertaken two days a week. The practical aspect will take half a day with the
remainder of the day devoted to working on the learning programme objectives and
personal journals.

Garden: As part of our sustainability theme, the students will be developing and tending
a vegetable garden plot. We are purchasing seedlings to get the gardens started and the
students should be able to harvest and use the produce grown. They will be propagating
seedlings to continue the growing cycle for both themselves, the group that follows and
the Orama community.

Get 2 Go Challenge: This is a day of problem solving/team work activities designed to
test the communication, resolve and interaction of this group of students. It will provide
an opportunity for the students to undertake peer and self review with the findings used
to move encourage change and learning.

Okiwi School Visit: Our students have been invited to spend a morning with the Okiwi
primary school. We have undertaken to deliver an hour of adventure based learning
activities to the students, after which there will be an opportunity for the students to
talk to the students to better understand what it means to be a young person on Great
barrier Island with its lack of infrastructure and Entertainment facilities (movies/ten pin
bowling/ shopping malls etc)

Journals: We will be taking three laptops to the Island which will be preloaded with a
programme that allows the students to create 50 page, A3 hard covered photobooks. The
students will be encouraged to keep written journals and to take photos that get loaded
onto the hard drive of their group computer. From this collection of photos and utilising
their written journals, students should be able to create a photobook of their experience
online utilising the Diamond Photo website. The photobook is an optional extra costing
$49 (one third of the regular cost). We will supply you a with a promotion code which
reduces the cost for you. Photobooks are paid for online and delivered to your home
address. Students are required to take a usb stick to GBE on which they may store
photos and GBE presentation material.

Skills extension: This is an opportunity for the students under the guidance of a Hillary
Outdoors instructor to elect to undertake an activity of their choosing.

Local interview: We have found a local person/s with interesting and insightful stories to
tell. These stories and a brief view into their lives on the island should enrich the
students understanding of the island community, the sustainable practises they undertake
and the trials and joys of living on the Island.

Art community: We have invited several artists on the Island to make themselves
available to the students. The students will use them as a reference/resource when
undertaking their programme of learning. Why live on an island with economic
disadvantages? Why so far away from a population base? How do they get their work to
the market? How did they arrive at GBI? etc etc.

Marae Visit: The students will spend the night at the Motairehe Marae. They will
participate in the Karanga and be welcomed onto the Marae. We will be organising the
food throughout the stay, with the local Whanau joining us for Kai. Ko Ngati Wai Ki Aotea
are the local Iwi with a long association with the island. We are very fortunate that they
have agreed to share their story, past and present, with us. They are currently in the
process of negotiating a treaty settlement and it will be a special opportunity for us to
hear how this might contribute to the cultural, social and economic sustainability of their
community.

DOC Visit: The Department of Conservation facilities have been provided with the latest
solar power technology. We will be investigating this technology to analyse advancements
made since the installation of solar technology at the Orama community.

Presentation Evening: Approximately 2-3 school weeks after each group returns there
will be a Presentation Evening in the auditorium during which the students share with
staff and parents an insight into the educational and environmental studies, their
personal experiences, and any other insights that they may want to share.
This will also serve as a graduation ceremony.