Around the world in New Zealand

SUNZ and our team of Youth Consultants offer adventure-based camps, progressive youth programmes and innovative resources for youth leaders and churches in Aotearoa, New Zealand. Since 1931 our Christian camping experiences have used varied activities to bring campers closer to God: from surf to ski; mountain bike to horseback; fishing to local mission projects.

‘E3’ expeditions are 11-day wilderness adventures to develop senior school students. As young people tramp, mountain bike, and kayak or white-water raft through beautiful backcountry New Zealand they are pushed physically and emotionally and are challenged to consider the spiritual implications ahead in life after school.

Leadership development to equip young Christians to be leaders of impact, today and in the future is a focus of two programmes: ‘Exodus Prime’ and ‘Beyond Experience’. ‘Exodus Prime’ is for secondary school students ready to develop personally and as Christian leaders. Students nominated by their church or school attend a five-day camp followed by in-church mentoring for 12 months. Each year of a four-year cycle stands alone but students can return to build on previous learning. ‘Beyond Experience’ is for young leaders beyond school age. Current and potential future SUNZ ministry and programme leaders are identified and invited on a multi-year journey including retreats and monthly meetings with experienced mentors from SUNZ for guided reflection and discussion.

A recent focus of SUNZ has been running Āpōpō, a mental health/suicide awareness programme for young people, in schools, churches and communities. Camps also run for special groups such as at-risk youth identified by schools. We’re always looking for new ways to connect today’s generation with our Creator!