On Wednesday, seven of us embarked on an unforgettable experience over the Easter break to conquer Great Barrier Island for our Gold Qualifying expedition for the Duke of Edinburgh Award. With Sienna Leigh, Matt Brill, Ollie Jackson, Oscar Saunderson, Marli Seaton, Leksa Platt-Mills, and myself, we were ready to take on whatever the island had in store.

From navigating the steep descents of old Kauri Tramline tracks to scaling hundreds of stairs to reach the summit of Mount Hobson, our journey was filled with adventure. Exploring windy canyons and stumbling upon hidden gems like watering holes and old whaling boats added to the experience, while hitchhiking with locals provided an unexpected thrill.

Stopping at a cafe for a proper meal after days in the bush offered a much-needed break and a welcome taste of civilisation and was a highlight for us all. At the end of each long day of walking, we would gather to set up camp, play cards, and enjoy our meals together before settling in and preparing for the next challenging day.

But it wasn't all smooth sailing. Spending so much time together tested our patience and communication skills. Living in close quarters and facing the journey’s demands required us to come together as a team to complete the task at hand. Through these challenging moments, we definitely learned a lot about one another and came away from the experience with a deeper bond.

Our journey to Great Barrier Island wasn't just about completing a hike and getting through the long days of walking – it was about pushing our limits, working as a team, and making memories that will stay with us forever. As we took those final steps, we knew that we had not only conquered the island but also taken another step towards completing our Gold award.

Article by: Cailin Sargent (Year 13)