On the 28th September 2024, our group of five girls and assessor set off on a four-day Adventurous Journey across the Queen Charlotte track in the Marlborough Sounds. We began the first morning by getting a water taxi to the start point at Ship Cove, where we discussed the approach to the start of the walk. We wanted to take the whole trip at a steady pace, aware of everyone’s weaknesses and to cover as much ground as possible while staying reasonably comfortable. After seeing the sign at the start point informing us that we had almost 30 km until the first campsite, the key method was to stay positive and enjoy the views knowing it would be a long walk. 

The first day involved some steep climbs to get us up to the saddle at Ship Cove, where we took our group photo. After many ups and downs and making sure we were having regular breaks for everyone to catch their breath, we reached the flatter shoreline. Despite this being the easiest terrain to walk over, the length of the day was catching up with us – the last two-to-three hours to the campsite of this nine-hour day were some of the toughest, more of a mental challenge than physical.

When members of our group were feeling weaker and more tired, we made sure to keep them near the front of the group. This was essential for the group morale, ensuring that everyone stayed positive and was not left behind. The importance of good warm food was also highlighted through this trip. Despite having to set tents up in the dark and everyone being tired, a nice warm dehydrated meal lifted everyone’s mood.

The next morning a trend began for the rest of the trip – very stiff bodies and intense pain where the packs were lying and in various parts of our legs. Painkillers and a positive attitude were key for making it through these mornings, as well as being aware that the day would start off slow as everyone adjusted to walking. The tops of the hills on the second and third days brought some of the most beautiful scenes of the trip. With stunning views of the sounds stretching out on both sides, it made the effort to get to the top worth it.

On the downhills, many of us suffered from knee pains and issues, which meant the whole group adjusted to our pace on the downhills. Similarly for the uphill, people walked at different paces. To overcome this challenge and not leave anyone far behind, we worked out a rotation of putting the weaker walkers at the front to set the pace. When they were feeling better or the terrain changed, the order would swap, which meant everyone felt supported. Leadership was shown by all members of the group and we worked to maintain this support throughout the journey.

On the third day, the last few kilometers were taking longer than expected. Everyone was struggling, but we managed by keeping the conversation light and fun enough that we all had something to keep our minds on. When someone was struggling, there was always another member of the group to pick them or the rest of us up again. It showed that within us, there wasn’t always one specific leader. Rather, we all stepped up in various moments to help the group maintain positive attitudes and enjoy the walk as much as possible.

Regularly timed breaks were also a great solution for the long walking distances. When the terrain was tougher or people were physically hurting more, we would have breaks every 15-20 minutes for a one or two-minute breather, and then every 40-45 minutes a five-minute drink break. When we were going at a better pace, the breaks would be more spaced out so we could make as much progress as possible while feeling stronger. This kept us all moving with something to look forward to, which kept the group morale up.

By the end, we had learned many valuable lessons, such as always carrying blister patches, spare footwear, painkillers and lollies, as well as the importance of a good warm meal and breaks throughout the walking. Without everyone keeping a positive attitude and keeping good morale and conversation within the group, we would have struggled much more mentally. As importantly, without everyone stepping up throughout the journey to help us all out and encourage us on, it would have been tougher on us individually. 

Overall, this journey was a physical and mental challenge. With the breathtaking views and the growth of us as individuals and as a group, it was 100% worthwhile. This trip is something that has shaped us for the future and that we will always remember.

We’re delighted to share another trip report from recent recipients of FMC’s Youth Award Grant. These grants are awarded four times a year, so if you’re inspired to get some financial support, head over to FMC’s website to apply.