Youth Award Grant – Five Hamilton Christian School students head to the Kaimanawa Range for their Silver Duke of Edinburgh Expedition. Read on to hear how their epic adventure unfolded…

On September 19 2025, we headed off on our final Duke of Edinburgh Silver expedition. We had been preparing for a year and a half, through this, we learnt that prior planning prevents poor performance, but nothing could prepare us for what we were about to face. So here is our story. We left after the final day of school for the term to head to Urchin campsite, ready for adventure.

Day 1 – Urchin campsite to Waipakihi Hut

Our first day was the best day ever, the sun gently warming us, not a cloud in sight and a refreshing breeze. We started our steady incline from Urchin to the edge of the bush line.

But one of our group members was struggling with the pace. Our first challenge was to split his pack, taking the heavy items, reminding us that we are not alone and we are in this together.

Through constant check-ins, we reached the bushline, a shared victory and the beginning of our alpine adventure. It also allows for a stunning view of both Mt Ruapehu and Mount Ngauruhoe. After many hours and a lot of sweating in the heat, we made it to Waipakihi Hut, our campsite for the night.

Day 2 Waipakihi Hut to Urchin campsite

On our second day, we awoke to the weather having turned, facing gale force wind, frigid temperatures and a blanket of fog hiding the mountain tops. After a quick group review, we decided that it would be unsafe to go on our planned route as it would take us off track, so we walked out the same way we walked in, as it was marked. We were all slightly disappointed, but we knew it was for the best.

The walkout was a battle of elements. Progress was slow, and the two people at the front had to get home, kicking in and ignoring our calls, they pushed on. An unnecessary risk and a reminder for the rest of us to stick together. They quickly disappeared into the fog we only found them half an hour later at a junction, very cold and unsure which way to go. A quick reminder of the dangers had them safely with the group again. I remember the ice on the tussocks growing as the day went on.

Seeing the bush line made the group feel like a victory, and was celebrated by taking off some layers. Our member who had been separated also poorly planned on how to keep their sleeping bag dry, as it was soaked, so they had a nice cold sleep.

Day 3 Urchin campsite to home

On day 3, we were all ready to get home, especially our members who had a wet sleeping bag and did not get much sleep. Due to our Route change yesterday, we were already at a pick-up spot, so we decided to go check out the pillars of Hercules before heading home.

This trip served as many reminders and good lessons. It reminded us that we need to be ready to accommodate unforeseen problems like the fitness of some group members and weather, making off-track navigation impossible. It taught us the importance of teamwork through the pack split and the eager group members.

“Most importantly, this trip created memories and friends, so thank you, the Federated Mountain Club, for funding that was used for equipment and travel costs, which would not have been possible without your help. Thank you from all the Duke of Edinburgh participants at Hamilton Christian School.”

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.