Outdoor Fun: Lifelong Skills
The KOA Idea
At KOA, we believe the outdoors is the ultimate classroom. We use practical, fun, outdoor skills — like fishing, eeling, surfing, hiking, bushcraft, and water safety — as a vehicle for developing real-world capabilities such as communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and resilience.
Each session blends hands-on learning with enjoyable, team-based challenges that strengthen confidence and encourage tamariki to support one another. By learning together in natural environments, they experience the excitement of adventure while developing a deep respect for Aotearoa’s unique landscapes and wildlife.
We’re passionate about creating opportunities for kids to unplug, explore, and discover their strengths in the outdoors — building memories, friendships, and skills that will support them well beyond our programmes.
Julia
"It has been truly amazing to find such a wonderful holiday programme that teaches our children such valuable life skills and nurtures such a healthy love of the outdoors!"
Natasha
"My two boys have attended both of KOA holiday programmes—Hiking/Bushcraft and Surfing—and loved every minute of them. Kieran is well-organised, blending fun and learning. Highly recommended for any family looking to get their kids off screens and into nature!"
Becca
"My youngest and her bestie did one day of bushcraft during the holidays and loved it. Came home chatty and happy. Will definitely do it again."
Our Programmes
KOA offers both after-school and school holiday programmes that evolve with the seasons, ensuring tamariki experience the best of the outdoors year-round.
During winter, our after-school sessions focus on hiking and bushcraft — building navigation skills, shelter knowledge, and confidence moving through wild spaces. In the warmer months, we shift to the water, with after-school fishing & eeling around our local rivers, and surfing & water safety sessions along Hawke’s Bay’s coastline.
Across the school holidays, we expand our adventures to new places and new challenges. Whether it’s exploring DOC reserves for multi-location hiking and bushcraft missions, travelling to the beach for surfing & water safety, or visiting local rivers for fly fishing, our programmes give tamariki the chance to learn practical skills in diverse environments while having a whole lot of fun.
Transport is provided for all programmes, making it easy for tamariki to join the journey — wherever it takes us.
Joyful Exploration
We believe learning should be fun! Our program is designed to be dynamic, adventurous, and engaging, making every moment outdoors an opportunity for curiosity, excitement, and joy.
Outdoor Connection
We foster a deep bond between tamariki and the natural world, encouraging an appreciation for the environment and a sense of responsibility towards it through mindful outdoor experiences.
Building Resilience
Through guided challenges and skill-building activities, we empower tamariki to face the unknown with courage and confidence, transforming each adventure into a journey of growth.