If you are a passionate talented New Zealand citizen or permanent resident 15 to 18 years old register on the website to kick start your future
The Pinnacle Programme has an open ended application process. We view every application but only take three intakes per year into Stage One. The Pinnacle Programme Manager will contact you via email or phone if you’ve been accepted.
“You walk off after 10 days with a whole new family, an amazing story to tell the world, and a new found confidence to face whatever life throws your way.” - Lily O’Brien
Spirit of Adventure is a 10 day, once in a lifetime experience on one of New Zealand's most famous sailing ships. With a team of 39 other teens from around the country, you will develop your leadership, self-confidence and quite literally leap, climb, swim and sail straight out of your comfort zone. Spirit gives students the opportunity to take a break from the typical learning environment and gain a unique new skill set that you can only find while lost at sea.
"Challenge is a funny thing. It’s how you find out who someone really is. It reveals more about a person than any Google search could possibly conjure." - Nathan Limm
We firmly believe that Outward Bound can be summed up in the quote: "struggle and criticism are prerequisites for greatness. That is the law of this universe and no one escapes it" (Richard Williams). Throughout this incredible bonding period with the great outdoors, you struggle. From the 6am run, to the top of your mountainous tramp. Yet you’re still pushing, and your mates are pushing too. That’s the great thing- you struggle together. You struggle towards a common goal. The goal of ‘greatness’. That is what is so special about Outward Bound. Arrive a nervous stranger. Leave a limitless champion.
"Kai Waho is a unique and special place to learn and grow. The knowledgeable and compassionate guidance I received from everyone during my time at kai Waho has blessed me with memories and life lessons that I will treasure for a lifetime." - Kate Cregoe
Kai Waho is a spiritual and educational journey that takes place in the picturesque wilderness of Tamau Pā. A magnificently wild and unique part of Taupo’s eastern rim. Its sub-alpine forest of which is divided by the Ripia River is the perfect setting to revive the mind, body and soul and reflect on one's values, goals and place in the world. It is a place to learn through compassionate guidance about sustainability and the responsibility of being our countries Ngāti Tuwharetoa kaitiaki (caretakers). It is also a place to celebrate and learn about Māori kai (food) hākari (feast), tradition and culture.
Tailor your final six months working with mentors, networks or courses to enhance your talents, work on improvement areas or refine and execute your business plan.
After graduating the programme, you'll continue to be connected to the Pinnacle family, meeting other incredible New Zealanders, each working on and improving what they are best at. Finally the opportunity is there for graduates to give back to the programme by inspiring young applicants, mentoring, selecting or being a Pinnacle champion.