Kia ora korua,
Three of our students have just returned from a 10 day voyage aboard Spirit of New Zealand, a youth training ship operated by the Spirit of Adventure Trust.
We have been incredibly fortunate with the support we have received from Spirit to get our students on board.
Whilst Marika, Save and Charlie have just returned, Lyrin, Tapu and Steven are currently on board having their own adventure.
Spirit of Adventure - VOYAGE 943
Savenaca Cakaunivalu (13NF)
My time on the Spirit of Adventure was an unforgettable and fun experience that I'll always treasure.
There are so many highlights I want to talk about, but the biggest ones for me were waking up every day to dive into the ocean for a morning swim, also sailing to islands I'd never been to before, where we would go for a hike, enjoying the view from the mountains. Another highlight was climbing the highest part of the ship, the mast, and I never expected myself to be jumping off a high point of a cliff into the water!
This trip has taught me new skills and valuable knowledge, as well as to be part of a team.
Thank you to Spirit of Adventure and Mrs Saunders for arranging funding for the trip, and thank you to Mr Jack for helping me fill out the application.
I wouldn't have been able to have gone without all the support I received.
Vinaka. Save
Marika Rawasoi (13CW)
My time on Spirit of Adventure was genuinely one of the most unforgettable and meaningful experiences of my life.From the moment Save and I stepped onboard, I felt welcomed, challenged, and inspired in ways I never expected.
The voyage pushed me outside my comfort zone, whether it was climbing the rigging, working as a team, or simply learning to live alongside people from all different backgrounds. What made it so special wasn’t just the sailing itself but the friendships, experiences, and personal growth that came from the experience. The crew was incredible, supportive, encouraging, and passionate about helping every young person succeed. They created an environment where everyone felt valued and capable, no matter their experience level. Living and working together at sea teaches you so much about yourself, patience, and supporting one another. Some of my favourite moments were the simple ones such as laughing during meals, watching the sunrise from the deck, singing together, and sharing stories late at night. So many good memories were made during those ten days out at sea, and it really taught me so many things, such as knowing how beautiful New Zealand truly is. I had seen many things that I wouldn't see on a daily basis, such as penguins, dolphins, and many more.
I would recommend Spirit of Adventure to every young person in New Zealand if they ever get the chance to go. It’s not just a sailing trip; it’s an experience that changes your perspective, helps you grow as a person, and creates memories you’ll treasure forever because I sure did.
I’m incredibly grateful to have been part of Voyage 943 and to have been given the opportunity to create memories with students and crew members.
Vinaka Vakalevu.
#40-Marika Rawasoi