3 students who attended the New Zealand Outdoor Instructors Association National Training Symposium in September share their stories, experiences and aspirations for a more inclusive outdoor sector.

Aimee – My vision for an inclusive and accessible outdoors  

After 2 years of studying at Adventure Works in Auckland, I’m graduating with my Diploma in Outdoor and Adventure Education, specialising in rock climbing and abseiling.  

I have always loved being outside. As a child, not a day went by where I wasn't climbing a tree or playing in the mud, but my true passion for the outdoors began in my outdoor education class at Howick College. I loved how the outdoors brought people together and created lasting memories. It was there that I developed my confidence, resilience and teamwork skills. 

Attending the symposium was an inspiring experience. Meeting and learning from so many legends in the industry was a privilege and I left feeling my future in the outdoor sector was solidified. It gave me confidence to keep growing in this field. 

Growing up alongside a close friend with cerebral palsy, I developed a strong passion for working in the disability sector. My goal is to combine these 2 paths by improving accessibility and inclusion within the outdoor industry. 

Looking ahead, I hope my generation continues to demonstrate kaitiakitanga, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the outdoors in the same beautiful ways we do today. 

Leo – A future where everyone can enjoy our greatest treasure  

I’ve just completed a Certificate in Outdoor and Adventure Education at Ara in Christchurch. When I’m not out on epic field trips, you’ll find me rock climbing in the Port Hills or fly fishing on the West Coast.  

Most of my life has been spent outdoors, fishing and tramping with my family growing up. My love for the outdoors deepened in high school when I walked the South Island leg of Te Araroa trail solo during my summer holidays at 17. It was an incredible experience and I met people from all over the world.  

One highlight at the symposium was connecting with people from across the country who share my love of the outdoors but expressed it in different ways.  

Coming from a decile 3 high school, most of my peers didn’t have the privilege of exploring New Zealand in the way I have. I didn’t know a single person at school who tramped, climbed or kayaked, and that’s something I’d love to see change.  

In the future, I want more young people from less privileged backgrounds to have the chance to experience nature – the greatest treasure in Aotearoa. That opportunity could lead to a wider range of young instructors who can connect with people from any background. 

Cheri – Finding my place outdoors

I’m studying a Diploma in Outdoor and Adventure Education at Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology, located where mountains, rivers and the ocean create an epic playground.  

My connection to the outdoors has been a journey. Growing up in Auckland, outdoor education felt out of reach. But everything changed in Year 13 when I moved to Cambridge High School and discovered rafting, tramping, canoeing and mountain biking. After school I worked in animal care, which I adored, but eventually craved challenge and connection. That led me back to the outdoor life I first dreamed of at 18. 

The symposium was inspiring. I met people doing epic things and learned how personal flair shaped facilitation. The workshops grew my skills, and the conversations gave me a glimpse into the future that made me excited to be a part of it.  

What I love most about the outdoors is the abundance – in experience, growth and connection. Nature slows us down, helps us live moments rather than rush through them. I believe the outdoors is a place for everyone, free of judgment and expectation – a space where learning, connecting and simply being are enough.  

In the future, I want an outdoor sector that thrives on inclusiveness, where all are welcomed. Success shouldn’t be about being the best, but about being curious, involved, and willing to grow.