Colour, Connection, and Community at Te Kūwaha Mātauraka

Tuesday 12th August 2025

From the moment you step through the door to the moment you set foot on the trails, Te Kūwaha Mātauraka is embracing connection, creativity, and community like never before.


Visitors arriving at the lodge are now welcomed by a vibrant splash of colour, thanks to the creative work of YDS Studio. The newly installed wall decal transforms the shared space into a warm, homely environment, perfect for the groups who come here to learn and explore.

More than just decoration, the artwork tells a story. Crafted from recycled bamboo, it reflects our values of sustainability, while its striking Fiordland imagery reinforces our deep connection to place. These themes are woven into the outdoor learning experiences that make Te Kūwaha Mātauraka so unique.

This special addition was made possible through the generous support of the John McGlashan College Parents and Friends Association (PFA) and features an incredible photograph by Nick Keizerwaard of Reflections of a Sound, gifted especially for the project.

That sense of welcome and community spirit extends well beyond the lodge walls. On Sunday, 24 August, we’re opening our orienteering course to the public, completely free of charge. Whether you’re after a relaxed family adventure or a competitive challenge, the course is designed to suit all ages and abilities.

Participants can complete as many or as few controls as they like, and guidance will be available for anyone trying orienteering for the first time. Bring a picnic lunch and take some time to enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Te Kūwaha Mātauraka before or after you set off.

To help us print enough maps, please register your interest at: https://tekuwaha.com/orienteering

From inspiring artwork on the wall to adventures out on the course, Te Kūwaha Mātauraka continues to be a place where creativity, nature, and community come together.