whakaraupō moana September 2025
The Whakaraupō Moana programme is a five-day, immersive wānanga designed to grow the next generation of leaders who are connected to place, confident in themselves, and committed to a thriving future for people and planet.
In partnership with Te Hapū o Ngāti Wheke, the programme brings together rangatahi aged 16–25 from across Canterbury to explore the environmental, cultural, and social dimensions of sustainability in Whakaraupō (Lyttelton Harbour).
Through hands-on restoration work, kōrero with mana whenua, systems thinking, and leadership development, participants build the tools and confidence to become active kaitiaki and change-makers in their communities.
Whether you're passionate about te taiao, looking to grow your leadership, or keen to connect with like-minded rangatahi – this kaupapa is for you.
when
Monday 22nd - Friday 26th September, 2025
where
Banks Peninsula, Christchurch New Zealand
who
High school students in years 12 or 13, and tertiary students up to the age of 25
Key outcomes
Grow Leadership Skills
Build confidence, self-awareness, and the tools to lead with purpose.Strengthen Personal Agency
Develop the belief and motivation to create meaningful change.Deepen Connection to Place
Explore Whakaraupō and understand the cultural and ecological systems that shape it.Hands-on Environmental Action
Take part in restoration, and sustainability-focused mahi.Engage with Mana Whenua
Gain insight into mana whenua perspectives, aspirations, and the historical context that shapes current environmental realities.Think in Systems
Understand how environmental, social, cultural, and economic factors are interconnected.
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, select the position you are applying for and have the option to upload a video application if you wish.
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.