Ōruawairua / Blumine Island Leadership Programme
Since 2002, Ōruawairua has been our pioneer programme — an immersive eight-day wānanga where rangatahi step into conservation leadership, connecting heart, head, and hands to protect biodiversity.
Beginning at Waikawa Marae and finishing at Wild Waikawa participants travel to Ōruawairua Motu to continue the legacy of work with DOC which has brought this island to its predator fee status.
You will not only leave the island in a stronger shape to support its inhabitants - you will leave in stronger shape yourself. You will have gained new skills and friendships : agency, confidence, and a lasting connection to te taiao.
“Step up for biodiversity. Step into leadership.”
When & Where
When: December 1st - 8th 2025
Where: Waikawa Marae, Ōruawairua / Blumine Island and Wild Waikawa
Who
Our programmes are for all Rangatahi aged 16–25
Key Outcomes
Develop action competency in sustainability leadership
strengthen critical thinking, creative problem solving, and collaborative skills.Deepen connection to identity, place, and whenua
explore ecological, cultural, social, political, and economic influences on conservation.Think systemically via ki uta, ki tai
understand how ecosystems interlink from mountains to sea, and how human decisions ripple across landscapes.Engage in hands-on conservation practice
through fieldwork, kōrero, and direct environmental action.
“The programme broadened my mind I feel culturally, physically, mentally and emotionally changed”
Ōruawairua 2024 participant
Ōruawairua is an immersive outdoor experience based on Ōruawairua / Blumine Island, where you’ll live and learn surrounded by te taiao. You’ll spend most of your time outdoors, with camping as the main form of accommodation. Parts of the programme are physically demanding, including walking over uneven terrain, climbing hills, carrying a backpack, and using tools as part of group mahi. Access to and from the island involves travelling by boat, and you’ll need to be able to safely get on and off without a wharf. You’ll spend extended time out in the elements and should come prepared for active days outdoors — bring a positive attitude, teamwork, and a willingness to give things a go!
Programme Costs & Accessibility
We are committed to making our programmes accessible to rangatahi from all walks of life.
To help us grow our reach and continue offering high-impact experiences to rangitahi throughout Aotearoa, we now offer two pathways to participate:
Cora Wilding Scholarship Positions (Fully Funded)
These positions cover the full cost of the programme, thanks to the generous support of our funders and partners.
Scholarship recipients are asked to offer a reciprocal contribution (such as a social media engagement, reflection, creative piece, or community action) to honour the investment made in them.
Fee-Based Positions (Partially Funded)
These positions are partially subsidised, with participants or their supporters (e.g. whānau, school, workplace, or community group) covering the remaining cost of $800 per participant.
This option supports us in extending opportunities to even more young people while keeping our kaupapa sustainable.
We encourage you to apply for the option that best reflects your situation. If you are able to pay or raise your own funds, we appreciate your contribution. If you require full support, please apply for a scholarship — we’re here to support you.
the application process
If you want to be considered for this opportunity complete the application form below.
You will be asked to provide some general personal information, a bit about who you are and what has driven you to apply for the position.
If you would rather submit your application in an audio / visual format please download & follow the instructions on the 'Video / Audio' link below.
Once applications close 6 weeks later, you will be notified whether or not you have been successful and required to complete a full registration.
For more information have a read of our FAQ or contact us directly, we’d love to hear from you.
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