Now known as the Otago youth development course, it has been shortened from 20 weeks to 10.
Doc community relations programme and course manager David Mules looks on the bright side - it means two courses can run a year to hopefully meet established demand.
Practically, it has meant some course activities have had to drop out and course supervisors Jo Smith and Shem Smith have had to work extra hard to ensure the benefits of the 20-week course can still be achieved in 10 weeks.
The first intake, comprising 16- to 24-year-olds, is nearly complete, with one of the major challenges faced by students a solo stint in the bush.
"It was very intense, makes you think," course member Kyle Allum (22) said.
Funded by the Ministry of Youth Development, the Otago course was unique for being the only one left in the country run by Doc.
However, there were about 40 similar courses with a variety of focus around the country, run by organisations such as community trusts, iwi and YMCA.
Hence the name change to better reflect the "whole spectrum" of courses offered, he said.
Doc Otago had retained its connection with the course and was committed to it because it saw the benefits to young people, to conservation and to the support the course provided for community groups.
"There is a nice synergy between what Doc offers and the needs of young people," Mr Mules said.
Doc's course focuses on personal development with an emphasis on environmental and conservation work.
"The aim is to make a difference in young people's lives to give them the skill, motivation, attitude; a can-do attitude to go out there and make it happen."
They get inquires from around the country for spots, but give priority to young people from Otago.
Natasha Bedford (17) came from South Auckland to do the course this year with the hopes of one day becoming a ranger.
For every course Doc tried to get a mix of young people of different ages, sexes and ethnic and social backgrounds.
Most that apply were in transition - they had left school or university, were between jobs or struggling to find a path in life, he said.
"They're confused, not sure of their direction," Mr Mules said.
"We get the whole spectrum of young people and abilities, but what they all have in common is they want to make that step, make a change."
Activities included working alongside groups on environmental and conservation programmes, getting into the outdoors and learning skills such as first aid and mapping.
In some cases, participants were put in uncomfortable situations - it could be staying out all night in the bush alone or public speaking.
"We try and replicate the realities of life, life with all the exciting possibilities," Mr Mules said.
They also had the opportunity to complete unit standards, get vocational assistance and opportunities to complete work experience.
"The aim is to get a high degree of destinations for young people. Whatever it is, it is not going back to the sofa."
For some that meant going back to some form of further training or education, for others it was to the ranger programme Nelson.
Doc in Otago had four or five graduates in its employee.
"Even if they go back to the same environment, they'll have the resilience, motivation and determination to make a difference."
