Dilworth’s Learning in the Outdoors curriculum is a cornerstone of the Dilworth journey and takes place at our Mangatāwhiri Campus, located between Pukekohe and the Bombay Hills. Spanning Years 7–13, our Outdoor Learning Programme offers rich, hands-on experiences that nurture physical, mental, social, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing and provide an opportunity for students to be challenged and grow. Through a progression of age-appropriate outdoor adventures across the upper North Island, students strengthen the skills and values that define confident, compassionate young men.
Our programme inspires students to:
- Develop self-awareness, confidence, and inner strength.
- Build positive friendships and meaningful, interdependent relationships with others and their communities.
- Form an authentic connection with nature, grounded in appreciation, sustainability, and kaitiakitanga.
- Explore their faith and nurture a deeper connection with God.
Each year, students spend time at the Mangatāwhiri Campus, immersing themselves in the outdoors while learning practical life skills. The Year 10 experience is a defining chapter, a halfterm residential stay where students live together in cabins, share responsibilities such as cleaning and laundry and take on a series of adventurous challenges including but not limited to tramping, climbing, kayaking, and mountain biking. A culminating multi-day expedition builds courage, teamwork, and leadership, the hallmarks of a true Dilworth education.
As students progress into their senior years, the focus evolves toward Leadership Development, Service and more specialised outdoor activities preparing each young man to step into the world with confidence, integrity, and purpose.
Guided by a dedicated team of instructors every student, while at the Mangatāwhiri Campus, is supported to push beyond his comfort zone, discover his potential, and experience the satisfaction that comes from perseverance, teamwork, and faith.
