Discovery Camp FAQS

We can cater to vegetarians, vegans, gluten-free, halal, and other dietary requirements.

We are not a nut-free site, but we do our best to minimise cross-contamination in our kitchen. If you have a severe allergy and need to bring some or all of your own food, we can provide fridge/kitchen space for this.

You will stay in dorm-style bunkrooms with 2 – 12 people for most of the programme, except when you are on an overnight expedition. 

You will stay in dorm-style bunkrooms with 2 – 12 people for most of the programme, except when you are on an overnight expedition. 

We’ve had many participants attend with various injuries or medical conditions such as;  

Please talk to us about your injury or medical condition so we can learn about your abilities and how we can best support you on a programme. Contact our Programme Coordinators, Nat and Shannon, at bookings@hillaryoutdoors.co.nz or 07 386 551.

Phones, laptops, iPads, etc. will be handed in to the instructor in charge on arrival or left at home. Hillary Outdoors programmes are an opportunity to connect with peers and the natural environment. Let friends/whānau know in advance that you will not be contactable by mobile phone for the duration of the programme. 

Cameras (e.g. digital camera, not a phone) are allowed, ensure you bring a case/dry bag. 

In the event of an emergency at home, parents/guardians, etc., can contact the Duty Manager. The Duty Manager’s phone number is in the Participant booklet, which you will receive once you enrol.

You can catch a bus to Tūrangi (Tongariro Centre) or Thames (Coromandel Centre). Once enrolled, you will receive pick-up and drop-off times and locations.  

Regarding expectations, we understand it is school holidays; however, school rules still apply. We expect acceptable school behaviour on our programmes. If students have major behavioural challenges while on our programmes, they may be required to leave the programme at the cost of their parent/guardian. 

Yes! Discovery Camp can contribute towards Duke of Edinburgh’s Hillary Award – Gold Residential. If you are wanting to do your bronze, silver or gold practice or qualifying adventurous journey, please contact our Programme Coordinators – bookings@hillaryoutdoors.co.nz to discuss which level you are at and which adventurous journey/s you may be able to do while on the programme.

From pick-up to drop-off, participants are cared for 24/7 by our experienced instructors and Centre staff. During activity time, typically the same instructor stays with the group throughout the week, helping to build strong rapport and a sense of familiarity. Outside of day activities (including evenings and overnight), each group has a different dedicated instructor available to support any needs or concerns.

Absolutely! We offer both weekly and monthly payment plans. Get in touch to find an option that works for you.

Yes. We welcome group bookings, with each group accommodating up to 10 participants.

Yes! If none of the current Discovery Camps fit your needs, please let us know. Camps are created based on demand, so if there’s enough interest, we may be able to make it happen.

Yes. There are several ways to help fund a Discovery Camp: 

Home Education Allowance: The Ministry of Education provides a twice-yearly allowance (typically in June and November) which can be used towards camp costs. Learn more here: https://www.education.govt.nz/parents-and-caregiversprimary-school/schooling-in-nz/home-education 

Hillary Outdoors Funding Support: We offer two additional funding pathways to help rangatahi access transformative outdoor experiences: 

Learn more about these options and how to apply: