Motueka teens are invited to come and explore the great outdoors and discover their local adventure hotspots, in a new series of free events organised by Tasman District Council and Whenua Iti Outdoors.

Held every Friday afternoon between 26 October and 30 November 2018, Motueka Wild Adventures is an opportunity for young people to learn more about the adventures on offer in their own backyard.

Activities could include mountain biking, kayaking, waka ama, high ropes, coasteering and cooking over a camp fire.

Tasman District Council Community Partnerships Co-ordinator Mike Tasman-Jones said the idea for Motueka Wild Adventures came out of the What’s Your Tasman? youth survey the Council carried out in 2017 as part of gathering community feedback for its Long Term Plan.

“We surveyed young people across the District to find out what they valued about living in Tasman, as well as what their concerns and priorities were.

“Young people in Motueka told us they love the natural environment of the area they live in, but were concerned about boredom and not having enough organised events or activities. Many also felt they and their peers didn’t have the skills to make the most of the outdoors.

“Motueka Wild Adventures is one of several new initiatives we’re setting up around the District to meet the needs of our young people. It’s an amazing opportunity to try out a range of fun and challenging outdoor adventures, learn new skills and meet new people - in one of the most beautiful outdoor playgrounds you’ll find anywhere.”

“I’m really looking forward to exploring our own back yard with local young people and igniting their passion for the outdoors,” said Joni Tomsett, the lead Whenua Iti Tutor on the programme. “So many people visit our region to experience our stunning environment first hand and now it’s the locals’ turn.”

Some of the other initiatives to stem from the What’s Your Tasman survey include:

• Free creative workshops including drumming, physical theatre, circus skills and creative writing for Motueka youth in August
• River safety course in Murchison coming soon
• An activity coordinator to drive youth initiatives in Murchison

Register for Motueka Wild Adventures

Anyone keen to join in on Motueka’s Wild Adventures can apply online with Whenua Iti – whenuaiti.org.nz/Motueka-wild-adventures

• 3.30pm – 7.00pm, every Friday between 26 October - 30 November 2018
• Transport will be provided from Motueka High School
• Ages 13 - 18 years

Article added: Friday 10 August 2018

Media release supplied by Tasman District Council.