In the July holidays I was one of thirty-five passionate students from across New Zealand that set off to experience our once-in-a-lifetime BLAKE Inspire programme in Auckland. Inspired by the legacy of Sir Peter Blake, the curated group of students took part in an action-packed week of activities - learning valuable lessons about environmental leadership through kayaking, marine biology, Mātauranga Māori, astronomy, biodiversity tourism, native forests, and corporate sustainability. Briefed only to prepare for an eventful five days, the unforgettable experiences and lifelong friendships that lay ahead will continue to kindle the spirit of adventure and kaitiakitanga within us all.

For anyone interested in science, conservation or just looking for a brand-new adventure I challenge you to apply for next year's BLAKE Inspire - Tūwhitia te hopo, mairangatia te angitu! (Feel the fear and do it anyway!)

Nāku iti nei, nā Veronica Mills

Article added: Wednesday 26 July 2023