Whānau Camp

Multi-day residential outdoor adventures for teens and their whānau, designed to strengthen relationships through challenge, teamwork, and discovery.

Whānau Camps are a unique opportunity for a parent, caregiver, or guardian to share the Hillary Outdoors experience alongside their teen (ages 11–18). The camps help strengthen relationships through shared adventure, teamwork, and personal discovery. 

Together, pairs participate in outdoor challenges that promote connection, communication, and mutual support, all within a beautiful, inspiring natural setting. 

Throughout the programme, you will: 

  • Strengthen open communication between the adult and teen. 
  • Enjoy quality time together, creating shared memories. 
  • Opportunity for adults and teens to meet and socialise with new people. 
  • Experience the outdoors and develop skills in nature. 

COROMANDEL

12-17 July 2026

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TONGARIRO

25 September – 2 October 2026

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FOOD

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 your own food, we can provide fridge/kitchen space. 

On expeditions away from base, the group prepares meals under their instructor’s supervision. These meals are simple and nutritious and are cooked over a fire or camp stove. Ingredients are prepared ahead of time and are appropriate for the expedition. 

SAFETY AND RISK MANAGEMENT

Our top priority is the safety of our participants and managing the level of risk in the activities we offer at our Hillary Whānau Camps. 

All activities are facilitated by our team of qualified instructors and are carefully designed and facilitated to offer age-appropriate challenges that encourage personal growth, develop interpersonal skills, forge new friendships and give feelings of accomplishment.  

We operate under a sector-leading, three-tier safety management system.  

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INSTRUCTORS

Hillary Outdoors instructors are enthusiastic, skilled, and committed to sharing their expertise, serving as strong role models. They are adept at supporting both individual and group needs. Each group is assigned a dedicated, qualified instructor who leads them throughout the entire journey, offering consistent guidance and care from arrival to departure. 

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Hillary Outdoors are the custodians of the amazing legacy created by Sir Graeme Dingle and Sir Edmund Hillary who believed that all youth should have access to enhance their lives through outdoor and adventure education, regardless of their material resources or ability.

Over 50 years later, we continue to provide support to ensure our outdoor education-based, youth development programmes are accessible to all Kiwi kids.

We can provide funding support for rangatahi to have life-changing adventures and flourish through two funding channels:

  • Crowdfunding: Contribution Hub
  • Hillary Step Scholarship programme
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Please take a moment to read through our Terms and Conditions before making a booking.

Read T&Cs

We have attempted to answer some of your questions! If you have more, please email our Programme Coordinators, Nat and Shannon – bookings@hillaryoutdoors.co.nz or call 07 386 5511.

Answers here

OTHER PROGRAMMES YOU MAY LIKE

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Discovery Challenge