A new Generation of Explorers gives back to New Zealand’s Backcountry
The Trust launched its first Inspiring Explorers™ New Zealand Huts programme in March, taking a group of seven young people into the Nelson Lakes region (NZ) to help maintain Hopeless Hut alongside programme partner Backcountry Trust and with support from the Department of Conservation.
Designed to connect young explorers with Aotearoa New Zealand’s backcountry, the programme draws on many of the same skills and values used by the Trust’s conservation teams working on the Ice each year.
Over three days, the team completed a range of maintenance projects at the hut, including digging a new toilet pit, repainting the hut, remarking sections of track, clearing vegetation, building a wood box, and strengthening parts of the structure.
When resources were limited, the team were challenged to think creatively, solve problems and work together, putting the qualities of the ‘Explorer Mindset’ into practice.
“We couldn’t just pop down to the hardware store, we had to make do with what we had. There were times when I was able to step up and draw on some of my previous experience to help the team problem solve and work through challenges together,” said Inspiring Explorer Stella Hamilton.
Launching the programme at Hopeless Hut was especially meaningful for the Trust having been officially opened in 1967 by Sir Edmund Hillary, one of New Zealand’s greatest polar explorers. Hillary led the New Zealand party of the Commonwealth Trans-Antarctic Expedition and established New Zealand’s first permanent presence in Antarctica at Scott Base, now one of five historic expedition bases cared for by the Trust.
The programme brought together a diverse group of young people from partner organisation Spirit of Adventure Trust, alongside former Trust Programme Manager Al Fastier, whose extensive conservation experience helped mentor and guide the team.
“You get a flavour of that remote living in Antarctica, and by weaving in all the stories from our conservation team and life on the Ice, the young people on the New Zealand Huts programme can experience a little bit of what it might be like to work down in Antarctica,” said Al Fastier.
The programme represents another pathway for young people to connect with exploration, conservation and heritage, while building the confidence and skills to contribute to the places they care about.
“It’s been special working alongside a group of young people experiencing the outdoors and contributing in this way for the first time. They bring fresh eyes, enthusiasm and a willingness to get stuck in. While they’re learning practical skills, they’re also discovering more about themselves and what it means to care for places like this. It’s a rich experience for everyone involved,” said Backcountry Trust South Island Project Coordinator Ollie Clifton.
The Trust is grateful to the Inspiring Explorers™ Fund donors whose support made the programme possible, helping young people step into New Zealand’s backcountry, learn new skills, and give back.
