WENDY VAN DEN BERG
Motueka High School's remarkable success in adventure racing has its roots in the same outdoor playground hundreds of locals will explore in this year's Gearshop Tasman Adventure Race.
Over the past 10 years, the school has built an impressive reputation in youth adventure racing, not just in the Top of the South but across New Zealand. The team has achieved outstanding results in events including the Hillary Challenge and the National Secondary School Adventure Racing Championships, collecting an impressive list of podium finishes.
More recently, several Year 13 students and recent graduates have competed on the world stage in races such as The Magnificent, Expedition Oregon, the Youth Adventure Racing World Championships and One NZ Godzone.
Six Motueka High School students took part in Godzone, widely regarded as one of the world's toughest expedition races. While many experienced adult teams were forced to withdraw for a variety of reasons, Motueka's homegrown adventure racers excelled.
Their success, however, extends well beyond results.
Ask anyone connected to the team and they will speak about the strong culture intentionally developed and passed from one year to the next. It is built not only through coaching, but through older students mentoring younger teammates and students from different year levels training and racing together.
Those qualities are constantly tested as competitors face physical and mental challenges. Success in adventure racing depends on teamwork, trust and resilience, and Motueka High School's racers have embraced those values.
Seven years ago, the team began a tradition of taking on an exceptionally demanding adventure each year to raise funds for the World Vision 40 Hour Challenge. The challenge reinforces a simple lesson: difficult things become possible when you are supported by people who have your back.
Like any sport, progressing to the next level requires funding. Years ago, the team realised a bake sale would not be enough. Instead, members asked themselves: "Why not run an adventure race ourselves?"
From that idea, the Gearshop Tasman Adventure Race was born.
Now in its third year, the event has grown into much more than a fundraiser. With support from landowners, local businesses and participants from across the region, it has become a community effort.
One unique feature of the race is the role senior students play in organising the event. Guided by experienced adventure race organisers, students and returning former students take on genuine responsibilities, from race logistics and course set-up to field support and finish-line operations.
The experience allows them to see another side of adventure racing while developing practical skills that will serve them long after the race is over.
With four-hour, eight-hour and 12-hour course options, there is a challenge for almost everyone. Teams of two, three or four can compete, and intermediate and secondary school students are welcome to race independently.
The four-hour course is popular with families, newcomers and those looking for a shorter adventure. The eight-hour option offers a step up in challenge, while the 12-hour race is designed for experienced competitors and requires grade two packrafting skills, strong navigation and plenty of endurance.
Whether participants are aiming for their first finish line, racing with friends, or tackling the full 12-hour challenge, every entry helps support the next generation of Motueka High School adventurers.
For those still wondering whether to give it a go, participation not only supports the future of the team but may also reveal just what they are capable of.
A guaranteed win.
Race date: Saturday, 14 November 2026
Location: Motueka
Enter: https://tasmanadventurerace.nz/
