Year 11 Challenge students complete first overnight hike

The Macleans College Year 11 Challenge course recently undertook a demanding overnight hike in the Whatipū area of the Waitākere Ranges.

Whatipū has a striking landscape of coastal dunes and wetlands, boarded by the sea on one side and native forest on the other.

On the first day, students hiked across three peaks in the northeast of Whatipū. They paused for lunch in the caves before climbing back up to the ridgeline. From there, they followed the track to Pararaha Valley, covering 12km while carrying full packs. Upon arrival, they constructed bivouacs to practise shelter-building skills, then set up tents and prepared dinner before nightfall.

The next morning, the group packed up camp, ensuring they left no trace. They continued through the valley toward the sand dunes. After circling the northern edge of the swamp, they reached the beach. A 10km walk followed, along the shoreline toward the lighthouse. Despite strong winds and loose sand, the students persevered and were relieved to return to the school vans.

This was the group’s first overnight hike. Carrying food, water, clothing, tarps, emergency gear and cooking equipment, the students demonstrated resilience and determination over the 23km journey. They will continue to apply the skills learnt during this trip and in class as the Challenge course progresses and future hikes become more demanding.