AdVenture’26
16th Aotearoā New Zealand Venture 2026
An Unforgettable Journey with Memories and Lifelong Friendships
The Australian Contingent has returned home following an extraordinary journey at Venture’26 in Aotearoā New Zealand, bringing with them unforgettable memories, lifelong friendships, and stories of adventure. A New Zealand Venture is the flagship international event for the Venturer Scout section and the 16th New Zealand Venture, saw five hundred Australian Venturer Scouts head across for the ‘AdVenture’ of their lifetime.
Where it all Begins
From the moment the contingent touched down in Wellington, the excitement was palpable, the adventure had officially begun. Our pre-tour gave Venturer Scouts a chance to explore New Zealand’s vibrant capital, discovering its streets, sights, and hidden gems. Participants visited iconic landmarks like Te Papa Museum and the Wellington cable car, wandered along the waterfront, and explored local parks and shops.
Challenge, Inspire and Engage
Phase One saw Venturer Scouts spread across the North and top of the South Island, taking part in a wide variety of expeditions designed to challenge, inspire, and engage. Adventurers could push their limits on high-energy options like Adrenaline Junkies, Full Send, Top of the World, and To the Limit, tackling activities such as canyoning, rock climbing, mountain biking, and alpine treks. Others explored waterways and sailing on Boaty McBoatface, kayaked and hiked with Sounds Explorer, or discovered the natural wonders of Wairarapa Wonders. Creative and skill-focused expeditions included Lights, Camera, Action, Shutter Up Studio, All Woks of Life, and Race Crew, allowing Venturer Scouts to explore filmmaking, photography, cooking, and engineering challenges. No matter the path chosen, each expedition encouraged teamwork, problem-solving, and independence while immersing participants in New Zealand’s stunning landscapes.
Unique Experiences at the Venture Site
After completing their expeditions, Venturer Scouts returned for Phase Two, where the main Venture site at Brookfield came alive with activities for every interest. Participants could test their skills in high-energy challenges like Battle Bows, Laser Ops, Splatter Zone, or tackle problem-solving and creativity in The Maker’s Den, Challenge Chamber, and Flavour Forge. Others relaxed and socialized at spaces like Aqua Oasis or The Chill Zone, or tried out unique experiences like drone flying with Mini Sky Pilots, team inflatables at Bounce & Battle Zone, or frisbee golf at Disc Quest. Phase Two gave Venturer Scouts the chance to reconnect with friends, share stories from their expeditions, and explore a diverse range of challenges and experiences, ensuring the final days of Venture’26 were just as memorable, adventurous, and fun as the first.
Beyond the ‘AdVenture’
After Phase Two, two hundred members of the Australian Contingent continued their adventure with the Post-Tour in Queenstown, marking the final chapter of Venture’26. This part of the journey combined high-energy adventure with opportunities to relax and time to explore the region’s breathtaking scenery, a fitting conclusion to an already remarkable experience. Participants experienced everything from jet boating, canyoning, ziplining, and white-water rafting, to kayaking on Lake Wakatipu, hiking iconic tracks, trips to Milford Sound and exploring Kiwi Park. There were also plenty of fun challenges and friendly competition, including, arcade, go-karting, luging, and night time activities that brought everyone together.
A Memorable Journey
Beyond the ‘AdVenture’, Venture’26 was a powerful reminder of the strength of international Scouting. New friendships were formed across borders, Leadership skills were developed, and Venturer Scouts returned home with renewed confidence, resilience, and a strong sense of belonging within the global Scout movement.
The Australian Contingent to the 16th New Zealand Venture sincerely thanks Scouts Aotearoā and the Venture’26 Organising Committee for inviting us to attend, along with the volunteers, Leaders, and supporters who made this experience possible. We hope every Venturer Scout had an unforgettable Venture’26 and created memories to last a lifetime, and we look forward to seeing where your next international Scouting adventure takes you.
Want to learn more about our journey? Head to our Facebook or checkout our daily newspapers on the website.
Article by Dylan Shaw
“AdVenture26′ – Marketing & Communications Lead
More photos from ‘AdVenture26’
Looking for International Scouting Opportuntity?
Have you been looking for your next Scouting adventure and not sure what you want to do next? Each year, Scouts Australia sends Contingents to many events around the world every year. Find more about the range of opportunities currently on offer by click the button below.