Get Ready for an Adventurous Journey: Award Leaders Training Trip 

• Start & End: St Heliers Beach
• Destination: Motukorea (Browns Island)
• Duration: 4-5 hours
• Cost: Free of charge for Award leaders. Funded by Auckland Sea Kayaks.

Purpose

This exclusive training gives Duke of Edinburgh Award leaders first-hand experience of an adventurous journey, mirroring what students encounter on an Auckland Sea Kayaks trip. It covers key kayaking, navigation, and expedition skills—helping leaders better support their students on any adventurous journey. No kayaking experience is required.

Target Participants

Group size: 8 participants
Ideal attendees: Duke of Edinburgh Award leaders from Northland, Auckland, Waikato, and Bay of Plenty who are new to the Award or interested in Auckland Sea Kayaks' expedition offerings.

Schedule & Key Learnings

1. Paddle to Motukorea – Kayak Skills & Water Navigation

• Safety briefing and efficient paddling techniques

• Packing a kayak and organizing DOE gear (tents, cookers, dry bags, etc.)

• On-water navigation: route planning, reading wind, tides, and currents

• Wildlife and Hauraki Gulf interpretation: seabirds, islands, history

2. Land-Based Training on Motukorea

Motukorea (Browns Island) is one of the best-preserved volcanoes in the Auckland Volcanic Field. Accessible only by private boats and kayaks, this untouched island offers spectacular views and rich history. Upon arrival, leaders will engage in:

• Navigation & Route Planning

  • Using marine vs. land maps and compasses in the field

  • Recognizing terrain features and estimating distances

• Hike to Motukorea Summit

  • Explore three historic Māori pā sites and gain insight into the island’s significance

• Expedition Planning & Risk Management

  • Managing groups outdoors (safety, decision-making, emergencies)

  • Adapting to changing weather conditions

• Outdoor Cooking & Gear Management

  • Meal planning and safe use of gas cookers

  • Discussion on land-based purposeful activities

3. Return Paddle to St Heliers – Reflection & Call to Action

• Teamwork focus: Paddling with a partner, swapping roles (front vs. back, using rudder, steering)

• Debrief on the beach: How Auckland Sea Kayaks can support Award Leaders & Duke of Edinburgh students

Join us for this unique training opportunity and enhance your ability to guide students on their Duke of Edinburgh adventurous journeys!

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Check your gear and help keep our islands pest-free.To keep these islands pest free. See what you need to do before joining Auckland Sea Kayaks on our trip please go to www.treasureislands.co.nz

When visiting pest free islands, or islands that are becoming pest-free, make sure you check your gear before you leave the mainland.

Protect our wildlife

Check – your gear for pests such as rodents and insects

Clean – footwear and gear, removing soil and seeds

Close – ensure your gear is zipped up (no open bags)

When you arrive on a pest-free island, you may be met by rangers to recheck your gear.

Risks

Sea kayaking and camping have inherent risks and can be dangerous. Detailed risk management and strict safety procedures are observed; however there still remains an element of risk that could result in injury (physical or mental) or even death. 

Our reputation depends on your safety – we give it top priority and take it seriously. A comprehensive paddling and safety briefing is given before all tours depart. 

Any concerns should be discussed when you enquire about or before you book a tour. If you want help on which trip is appropriate for you, please contact us. Click here for full terms and conditions.