Phase 1: Expeditions!

We left you last time with a mega Queenstown update, having finally arrived at Riverton on the 5^th and hence moved into the next phase of the adventure – the official Venture itself.

When we arrived at the Riverton Racecourse, the Venturers and Leaders all met with each other and formed into their Expedition Units.  Many enjoyed putting a face to a name having chatted online previously during the build up. Excess gear, such as costumes for Phase Two, was stored away.  The extra room meant that, for once, repacking for expeditions didn’t require cramming and struggling with the travel bag to fit everything! The expedition groups then headed straight out to begin 5 days of adventure and new experiences.

The feedback from every single one of the expeditions has been overwhelmingly positive. The Contingent team spent the 5 days driving around the South Island trying to visit as many expeditions as possible. Right across the South Island, all the Venturers were having a ball and making the most of their time experiencing New Zealand. We personally managed to visit the Scuba Divers, Mountain Bikers, Kayakers, Central and Southern Adventurers, Sailers, Catlins Experience and Rural Living – the last of which was so good we decided to stay the night! All our visits were greeted with smiling faces, which was due to both the quality of the activities as well as the new friendships that were being formed.

All the other expeditions had a heap of things much to report on their return, with plenty of stories, photos and friends to share. No doubt you will hear about it on their return, if not on Facebook first! 

On Thursday, expeditions finished up and everyone returned to the Riverton Racecourse. Phase 2 of the Venture kicked off with a bang, with the Kiwi’s throwing a massive welcome back party! Over the next few days during Phase 2, Venturers have the opportunity to experience a wide range of activities both on and off site. There is also a whole heap of themed night activities which are sure to be a blast. Check back soon for more goss, as well one more mega photo upload!

But, if you can't wait for our next blog update, we do have a little something for you! Radio Southland, which a local community radio station, is broadcasting live from the Venture site from now until the 14th. The best part is, you can stream it live back home - just head over to http://player.wizz.co.nz/radiosouthland/. The Venturers themselves are actually running the station between 7am and 4pm AEST, so tune in and check it out!

Until then, stay classy Australia!

Kusi & Rob