Te Kūwaha Mātauraka - our second campus

---

I think about the deep connection we share with the land around us. I see myself as a guardian of this land—a role that I take seriously and passionately, here at Te Kūwaha Mātauraka. The native plants, birds, and wildlife that surround us are not just part of the backdrop; they are living, breathing members of our community. They are an essential part of the ecosystem, and their well-being is tied to ours.

For me, being a guardian means more than just protecting these species—it means cultivating a sense of responsibility and reverence for the natural world. Our campus is a living landscape, full of rich biodiversity, and it is our job to preserve that balance. Native plants, which once flourished here, can sometimes struggle in the face of invasive species or environmental change. But by restoring and protecting these plants, we help maintain a healthy habitat for the birds and other wildlife that depend on them.

But being a guardian isn’t just about action—it’s about understanding. It’s about seeing the land not as something separate from us, but as a vital partner in our lives. Nature doesn’t just exist here for our enjoyment; it exists here because we are a part of it. And when students see themselves as part of that larger story, they begin to understand the responsibility they carry as stewards of the earth. They begin to realise that protecting nature is not a task for the few but a duty for all of us.

In my role, I try to lead by example, sharing this vision of stewardship with others. I encourage students to pause and notice the beauty of the native plants we have here. I invite them to recognize the songs of the birds that visit our campus and think about how they can contribute to preserving that harmony. It might be as simple as planting a native tree, reducing waste, or being mindful of the wildlife that shares this space with us. Every small action adds up to a significant impact.

As we move forward, I want to inspire our akonga to make choices that nurture this campus, to protect the native plants that contribute to our environment, and to help our wildlife thrive. Whether we’re on a tramp, kayaking, or simply enjoying the quiet moments between activities, the land is part of us. It’s our job to honor it, care for it, and pass it on, healthy and thriving, to the generations that follow us.

What are we doing at Te Kūwaha Mātauraka to build on the John McGlashan vision of Building Foundations for life? We want our students to become well-educated men of character. We want them to have the courage to stand, alone if necessary, for what they believe is right and to use their education and influence for the good of others. 

While this vision can become a reality in a classroom, it can also become a reality through Education Outside the Classroom. Te Kūwaha Mātauraka is the perfect location to push boys out of their comfort zone and help build resilience, perseverance and integrity. 

We want our boys to not only respect the land they are on, but to take full accountability for their actions while they are here. The idea of sustainability isn’t just a concept for us—it’s a practice we live by every day. We aim for our students to understand that sustainability isn't something distant or abstract; it’s something they can put into action right here on this site. Every time they step onto this land, they are engaging with its care and preservation.

Through these activities, our boys learn that every action has an impact, and with that knowledge, they grow into young men who can be counted on to care for the world around them.

In the past year, we’ve already seen the positive results of their efforts. The abundance of birdlife has increased, and the number of pests trapped has decreased significantly—concrete proof that when we work together with nature, the land thrives.

In addition to environmental stewardship, our boys also learn about the rich history of this site. We incorporate both Māori and European perspectives, allowing them to appreciate the cultural and historical significance of the land they are caring for. This broader understanding enhances their connection to the site, making their efforts to protect and preserve it even more meaningful.

Alongside environmental education, we have continued to expand the range of activities we offer on site. We’ve built and designed a number of Adventure Based Learning activities that challenge and inspire our students. Our fleet of sea kayaks and sit-on-top kayaks allows for exploration of the surrounding waters, while our new archery gear provides a chance to develop new skills. With our telescope, we take advantage of the crystal-clear night skies, providing our visitors with a chance to stargaze and learn about the universe. On top of that, we’ve created a fun frisbee golf and orienteering course, giving students the opportunity to hone their navigation and teamwork skills. And of course, our popular water slide continues to bring laughter and excitement, offering a few seconds of speed and adventure—and perhaps a little grass burn for good measure!

We also offer opportunities for groups to camp or bivvy out, either on-site or off-site, encouraging them to push beyond their comfort zones and develop resilience and independence. These experiences help our boys and visiting groups connect not only with the land but with each other, building lasting bonds and memories.

Looking ahead, we have great aspirations for the future of this facility. We are committed to growing and developing this space, continually improving the experiences we offer, and deepening our commitment to sustainability. It is exciting to see how this vision is unfolding, and I can’t wait to watch it grow over the years to come. I truly believe that the work we are doing here will leave a lasting legacy for future generations of students, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact we continue to have on both the land and the people who walk it.

Let’s work together to create a campus where the beauty of nature isn’t just something we admire from a distance, but something we actively protect. Together, we can make a difference.