Leadership Through Adventure Fund
Three Weeks, Three Disciplines, One Unforgettable Expedition
From whitewater to high peaks and deep canyons, a journey through challenge, growth, and adventure across New Zealand’s South Island – made possible Thanks to Dick and Pip Smith, Leadership Through Adventure Fund.
Early in 2025, a Patrol of six Rover Scouts from New South Wales embarked unforgettable three-week adventures set across New Zealand’s South Island to push their limits, build new skills, and explore some of the most rugged and breathtaking landscapes the country has to offer. From mastering whitewater kayaking at the NZ Kayak School, to battling the elements in the Aspiring Ranges, and plunging into the icy waters of remote canyons, the journey was as demanding as it was rewarding.
Kicking off the journey together with a burst of energy and enthusiasm at the NZ Kayak School, with mornings began in the pool, where the team focused on mastering rolling techniques. These sessions were rigorous but engaging, and over time, each paddler became more comfortable underwater. One of the standout aspects of the training was video analysis. Every roll attempt was captured on camera, offering participants the chance to refine their technique by seeing exactly what worked – and what didn’t. The feedback loop was fast and effective.
The Patrol was split based on skill level: three of the more experienced kayakers joined the intermediate/advanced group, while Kathryn and another teammate trained with the beginner/intermediate cohort. Despite the difference in starting points, everyone made noticeable progress. By the end of their time at the school, all were confidently rolling in current on both sides – an accomplishment that marked a huge milestone in their kayaking journey.
Afternoons shifted from the pool to the river, where the team applied their new skills in real-time. They practiced ferry gliding, eddy hopping, and of course, putting their rolls to the test in flowing water. The environment was challenging, but with the help of exceptional guides, the group pushed their limits and came out stronger.
From Paddles to Peaks
The next chapter of their journey led them into the Aspiring Ranges for what was planned as a four to five – day mountaineering adventure. The objective was ambitious: hike to Mt French, cross to Colin Todd Hut, summit Mt Aspiring, and return via the valley. But nature, as always, had its own ideas.
To get a jump start, the group hiked 9km to Aspiring Hut on New Year’s Eve. Spirits were high, and the trail – though long – was manageable. The following day, however, brought a steep 900-meter ascent to French Ridge Hut. The trail was only two kilometers in horizontal distance, but with heavy packs and stiff mountaineering boots, the climb was intense. Along the way, they passed hikers descending early due to soft snow on the route ahead. It was the first indication that their original plan might need adjusting.
After regrouping at the hut, a few team members decided to scout the Quarter Deck – a high pass leading to Bonar Glacier. They left before sunrise with light packs, hoping conditions would hold. As they climbed, the snow remained firm, and things looked promising. But as they neared the top, the clouds rolled in, shrouding their path in mist. With visibility dropping and a strict turnaround time of 9:30 a.m., they made the collective decision to turn back. They were only about 75% of the way there, but safety came first.
Back at the hut, the team napped, refuelled, and later descended into the valley, setting up camp beside an icy glacial river. In a final show of grit, each member braved a plunge into the freezing water before dinner. The next morning brought rain and relentless sand-flies, but Matt, unfazed, cooked breakfast for the crew before they made their final push back to the trailhead. While they didn’t summit Mt Aspiring, the lessons were invaluable. They learned the importance of flexible planning, smart footwear choices – mountaineering boots, it turns out, are not ideal for dry terrain – and above all, knowing when to turn back.
With their mountain goals on pause, the team turned south for the canyoning portion of the expedition, eager for adrenaline and adventure. Their first stop was Haast Pass, where two of the members had previously explored. Over three packed days, the Patrol tackled two canyons a day, navigating slick rock, deep pools, and freezing waterfalls. It was cold, thrilling, and exhausting in equal measure.
Canyoning in the South Island
The next stop was Glenorchy, where the team hoped to explore new, larger canyons. Before diving in, they paused for a much-needed shower at a public pool in Queenstown – their first proper wash since the New Year. Their first canyon in the region, Major Mayhem, lived up to its name. It was long, cold, and challenging, with a few members feeling the effects of the chill. Given a forecast of colder conditions in the nearby General Canyon, the group made the call to skip it. It was a strategic decision – another example of the team balancing ambition with well-being.
Soon after, Kathryn and Matt rejoined the Patrol, they made their way to Fiordland. The drive south was punctuated by scenic breaks and a memorable alpine lake swim. A quick visit to Milford Sound gave them a moment to appreciate the wild beauty of the region before heading to their final canyon: Ferrero. This remote, lightly documented route had only been done by two team members in the past, so the group went in with little beta. Despite the unknowns, they navigated it successfully, finishing just in time for a hearty pub dinner in Te Anau.
With tired limbs and full hearts, the Patrol slowly made their way back to Christchurch, closing the chapter on their three-week expedition. From rivers and peaks to gorges and glaciers, the journey had been full of challenge and reward.
But more than just technical skills, they had grown as individuals and as a team. They’d learned how to assess risk responsibly, as evidenced by their decision to turn back on Mt Aspiring. They’d practiced adaptability, leadership, and communication – sometimes leading, sometimes listening, and always supporting one another. Whether it was motivating someone through an icy canyon or reassessing a plan mid-hike, the expedition proved to be a masterclass in real-world leadership and teamwork.
Through it all, one lesson stood clear: adventure isn’t just about reaching summits or ticking off goals – it’s about the resilience built, the wisdom gained, and the people beside you along the way.
And as they all agreed, this wasn’t the end. It was just the beginning.
Article by Milly – Rover Scout (2nd Gordon Rover Scouts)
More photos from the expedition
The next round of Leadership Through Adventure Fund (LTAF) applications is Now Open.
If you are planning your adventure and you would like to find out more how Dick and Pip Smith – Leadership Through Adventure Fund (LTAF) can assist financially to your adventure, click the links below to find out more or contact LTAF@scouts.com.au.
