Leadership Through Adventure Fund (LTAF)
Rover Scouts Conquer the Old Ghost Road, New Zealand
In November 2025, a Patrol of four Rover Scouts from three different Units embarked on a thrilling, nine-day expedition to conquer the legendary Old Ghost Road, located in New Zealand’s South Island. This 85km trail, known for its remote and rugged terrain, presented not only a physical challenge but also an opportunity to explore New Zealand’s history and heritage, all while testing the Scouts’ teamwork, Leadership, and resilience.
The Spark of Inspiration
The seed for this incredible journey was planted six years ago when Patrol Leader Campbell attended the Banff Radical Reels Film Festival at Randwick Ritz. The festival, which showcased films and articles about extraordinary expeditions, sparked his curiosity for new challenges. Among the many adventures featured, the Old Ghost Road stood out for its rugged terrain, technical difficulty, and fascinating historical background.
“This journey was the culmination of 10 months of meticulous preparation,” said Campbell. “It was the unique combination of landscapes – alpine ridgelines, beech forests, and remnants of gold mining history that really drew me to the Old Ghost Road. As an archaeology student, I was also excited by the historical connection to 19th-century miners who once traversed this rugged terrain.”
Preparing for the Trek
After months of planning, the Patrol flew from Sydney to Christchurch, New Zealand. From there, they made their way to Lyell, the small town that served as the starting point for their six-day trek along the Old Ghost Road.
The trail, known for its isolation and challenge, weaves through dense forests, over alpine ridgelines, and past historical mining sites. It’s a route that was once used by gold miners in the 19th century, and the remnants of their efforts still dot the landscape, adding a layer of historical intrigue to the Scouts’ journey.
Leadership, Teamwork, and Adaptability in the Wilderness
Throughout the expedition, Campbell’s Leadership skills were put to the test. From managing complex logistics – such as organizing flights, accommodation, and shuttle transfers, to guiding the group through unpredictable weather conditions, he was forced to think quickly and adjust plans as necessary.
“The most important lesson from this journey was learning how to Lead a Patrol through adversity,” Campbell reflected. “The weather was unpredictable, and the terrain was challenging, but we always had to keep the bigger picture in mind – safety, progress, and morale. Ensuring that everyone felt supported, motivated, and informed was key to keeping the Patrol cohesive.”
The Patrol encountered everything from gale-force winds to heavy rain, forcing them to make crucial decisions on the fly. For example, when they arrived at Goat Creek Hut and found it unsuitable for an overnight stay, Campbell decided to push on for an additional 8km to Mokihinui Forks Hut.
“Every decision had to be carefully considered, especially in such extreme conditions. Balancing safety and progress was a challenge, but we made it work as a team,” he explained.
Personal Growth and Team Reflection
While the physical challenge of hiking through New Zealand’s backcountry was demanding, the experience also provided valuable opportunities for personal growth. Throughout the journey, the Patrol refined their Leadership, communication, and risk assessment skills, and they learned the importance of adaptability and planning.
“The extreme conditions on day two and three, with high winds and rain, were particularly challenging. My qualifications as a Bushwalking Guide were incredibly helpful in managing the group’s pace and ensuring everyone’s safety,” Campbell explained. “We also used a buddy system to ensure accountability, which really helped in maintaining a sense of team cohesion despite the tough conditions.”
Each day, the Patrol held morning briefings and regular check-ins to assess their progress, the weather conditions, and how everyone was feeling. These briefings kept morale high and helped ensure everyone was physically and mentally prepared for the day ahead.
“The most rewarding part of the journey was not just reaching the end, but the process of overcoming each challenge together,” said Bree, one of the Patrol members. “We learned to trust one another, communicate effectively, and keep a positive attitude despite the adversity we faced.”
A Testament to Resilience and Teamwork
At the conclusion of the journey, the Patrol reflected on the deeper lessons they had learned about Leadership, teamwork, and resilience. For Campbell, the experience reinforced the value of preparation, adaptability, and the power of working together.
“This expedition wasn’t just about crossing off a bucket-list item; it was about developing as Leaders and teammates,” he said. “It’s one thing to take on a challenge like this, but it’s another to do it with a group of people who share the same commitment to the adventure. This experience has deepened my understanding of Leadership and the values that Scouting in all of us.”
This remarkable journey was made possible with the support of the Dick and Pip Smith – Leadership Through Adventure Fund (LTAF), which helped fund the expedition. The Patrol expressed their sincere gratitude to the LTAF Fund and Committee for their generous support.
Ready for Your Own Adventure?
If you have been inspired by this journey and are looking to take on your own expedition, the Leadership Through Adventure Fund (LTAF) can help make it happen. Find out more about how the fund supports Patrols in turning their adventure plans into reality.
For more information about the LTAF and how it can support your adventures, click below button to find out more.
