Year 11 Challenge students complete demanding Pinnacles expedition
Posted on June 17, 2026
Year 11 Challenge students at Macleans College recently completed a demanding expedition to the Pinnacles on the Coromandel Peninsula, testing their resilience, teamwork and outdoor skills in challenging conditions.
After a chilly night at the campsite, the students set off early for the climb. Carrying all of their equipment, except tents, they made the ascent to the summit of the Pinnacles in the Kauaeranga Valley.
As they approached the top, cloud cover reduced visibility and obscured the panoramic views the Pinnacles are known for. After a short break at the summit, the group began the return journey to their campsite. The expedition covered 23 kilometres and took approximately nine hours to complete.
Despite missing the views from the summit, the students thoroughly enjoyed the experience and took pride in completing the demanding trek.
The trip also provided an opportunity to develop practical outdoor skills. Students practised building emergency bivouacs in preparation for an overnight stay later this year.
Throughout the expedition, they faced a range of physical and environmental challenges. By working through these conditions, they strengthened their resilience, confidence and ability to persevere when faced with adversity.
The Year 11 Challenge programme at Macleans College is designed to inspire and challenge young men to reach their full potential. The course focuses on developing resilience, fitness, self-discipline and confidence, while equipping students with practical skills that support future independence in employment, finances and everyday life.
