Course builds river confidence

More than 100 students from 11 schools recently took part in a hands-on river safety programme on the Waitaki River, building confidence and practical skills that could one day save lives.

Funded through the Tū Manawa initiative by Sport Waitaki, the programme was delivered by instructors from Peel Forest Outdoor Centre and based at Kurow Holiday Park.

Each participating school attended for a full-day session focused on safe and enjoyable interaction with one of the region’s most powerful natural environments.

Rather than a classroom-based approach, students learnt through practical, hands-on experiences.

Activities were designed to build awareness of river hazards, develop safe movement in open water, and encourage teamwork through mixed-school group challenges.

For many students, particularly those with limited prior experience around rivers, the day marked a noticeable shift in confidence.

By the end of the programme, students were not only more capable in and around the water but also more aware of the risks and how to manage them.

The teachers were overwhelmingly positive, rating the programme five out of five for overall satisfaction.

One teacher described the day as "a great success", highlighting the role of "positive, enthusiastic guides leading a very valuable programme for the children".

Part of Peel Forest Outdoor Centre’s wider work, the programmes focus on building confidence, resilience and real-world skills through meaningful outdoor experiences for young people across the region. — Allied Media