The Spirit of New Zealand

The Spirit of Adventure Trust is dedicated to NewZealand and its youth providing access to a character development programme through sail training. Each year between 1500 and 1600 young people from throughout the country, participate in the Youth Development 10 day programme for 15-19 year olds. During specially designed voyages, youngsters with disabilities, disadvantaged or "at risk", are given every opportunity to achieve personal goals and to develop a sense of community spirit. Auckland businessman Lou Fisher commissioned the STS Spirit of Adventure in 1972 and gifted her to the youth of NZ. The Trust was established to operate the vessel and due to increased demand for berths, the STS Spirit of New Zealand was commissioned in 1986.

The Trust employs 12 permanent crew who work a two voyage on, one voyage off roster. The two ships require in excess of 20 crew for each sailing, so the Trust relies heavily on their volunteer crew who number 500 throughout the country. The Armed Services often provide assistance in the form of cooks and watch officers

With teamwork and the recognition of personal strengths and weaknesses, young New Zealanders gain self esteem and a deeper understanding of themselves and others. Through the medium of the sea in ports and waterways around the country, these children from all walks of life, develop a justifiable pride in being New Zealanders.

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Photos by Ivan Hughes