Outdoor Adventure Activities at Shakespear Lodge, Auckland
Outdoor Adventure & Educational Activities for everyone, from Archery and Mountain Boarding to Climbing and Kayaking
<Why take part in outdoor adventure activities? People often have common goals: they may want to learn outdoor pursuit skills, build confidence and trust, improve communication or get to know one another. The Y (formerly known as YMCA) Shakespear Lodge can design an outdoor education programme with adventure activities tailored to the goals of your group. Experience Outdoor Education delivered by our experienced and fully trained team of Outdoor Instructors, we also offer some self-led activities too!
With our team of friendly, inclusive and professional instructors leading the adventure activities, participants can learn and improve their skills in a variety of pursuits. Our outdoor adventure activities include everything from mountain biking and orienteering to raft building and sailing, and plenty more. We can even offer Team Challenges exercises for those who want to build confidence while challenging themselves!
During our outdoor adventure activities, education comes first. We design our sessions based on the philosophy that once a person has learnt the skills needed, they will be able to have fun and enjoy the experience. Shakespear Lodge’s outdoor adventure activities have even been credited with the Qualworx standard, ensuring a safe and enjoyable learning experience for everyone.
The Y Shakespear Lodge is a registered Adventure Activity Provider with an Qualworx safety audit
Information on our safety management system including known risks and their controls will be shared with participants after a booking has been made and prior to arrival on the programme. If you would like information prior to making your booking please contact the Camp office.
Activities In the Sea
Coasteering
What is Coasteering
An exciting coastal adventure suitable for all group types, Coasteering combines scrambling, walking, wading, swimming, and sometimes rope work along the rocky shoreline. Participants learn essential water safety skills such as safe entry and exit techniques, defensive swimming, and building water confidence.
Why do it?
Coasteering offers a unique opportunity to explore the coastal environment—its geology, marine life, and birdlife—while developing teamwork, resilience, and confidence in and around the water.
Kayaking
What is Sea Kayaking?
Experience sea kayaking in a safe and supportive environment using two person sit-on-top kayaks—perfect for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. Participants learn essential paddling and maneuvering skills through guided discovery, games, and exploration of the breathtaking Te Haruhi Bay surrounding Shakespear Lodge.
Why do it?
This Qualworx-audited activity offers a fantastic introduction to kayaking, where participants of all levels can grow their confidence and skills together. Set against the backdrop of crystal-clear waters, native bush, and sweeping coastal views, it’s an unforgettable way to connect with nature, build teamwork, and enjoy the beauty of the Hauraki Gulf & Shakespear.
Raft Building
What is Raft Building?
Working in teams and the basic equipment of wood, barrels and rope, participants design and construct a raft capable of floating—with the whole team aboard! Along the way, they learn basic knot tying, construction techniques, and how to problem-solve together in a hands-on, outdoor setting.
Why do it?
Raft Building offers a huge sense of achievement as teams bring their ideas to life on the water. Whether the raft floats perfectly or not, the experience is packed with valuable lessons in teamwork, resilience, and creative thinking.
CoastguardNZ Safe Boating
What is Safe Boating?
Delivered by trained Y instructors, this CoastguardNZ Education course is a hands-on introduction to boating and water safety. Participants learn how to prepare for a trip, call for help in an emergency, and take care of themselves if things go wrong on the water. The session begins with a short theory component on land, followed by practical skill-building in the water.
Why do it?
This activity provides potentially lifesaving knowledge in a fun and engaging format. All participants who complete the course receive a Coastguard Education – Safe Boating Programme certificate, gaining confidence and essential skills for safe adventures on the sea.
Safe Boating Extension
What is the enhanced course?
This enhanced Coastguard Education course, delivered by trained Y instructors, builds on the standard Safe Boating Programme with added real-life water scenarios. After a short theory session on land, participants head into the water to apply their knowledge in practical, hands-on challenges that simulate emergency situations and decision-making under pressure.
Why do it?
By actively engaging in realistic water scenarios, participants deepen their understanding and retention of vital boating safety skills. This programme not only equips them with potentially lifesaving knowledge—it also builds confidence, teamwork, and readiness for real-world situations on the water.
Sailing - Large Boat
What is Large Boat Sailing?
Half the group heads out on our 16ft Hobie Catamaran to experience the thrill of sailing—whether crewing, steering, or simply enjoying the ride. The other half relaxes with beach games and exploration before swapping over. It’s a hands-on introduction to sailing basics in a safe, supportive environment.
Why do it?
Set against the stunning backdrop of Shakespear Regional Park and the sparkling waters of the Hauraki Gulf, this activity offers a unique chance to learn sailing while soaking in one of the most beautiful coastal environments in New Zealand. It’s a memorable blend of adventure, learning, and relaxation.
Activities On the Land
Air Rifles
What is Air Rifles?
A focused and rewarding activity where participants learn the fundamentals of firearms safety and target shooting using air rifles. The session covers safe handling, correct shooting technique, and responsible behaviour around firearms—all in a thoroughly controlled and supervised environment.
Why do it?
Air Rifles is a great introduction to using firearms safely, blending education with excitement. Participants gain a strong understanding of gun safety, build confidence, and enjoy the challenge of precision shooting—all while having fun in a safe and structured setting.
Archery
What is Archery?
This session follows the New Zealand Field Archery Association (NZFAA) 10-Step Programme and the alignment with teaching from ArcheryNZ, introducing participants to correct shooting technique, safe handling of equipment, and proper archery terminology. Skills are taught through a mix of instruction and fun, game-based learning.
Why do it?
Archery is a highly accessible and rewarding activity that promotes focus, coordination, and confidence. With a strong emphasis on safety and technique, it offers a high rate of success and enjoyment for all participants—regardless of sporting ability.
Bush Cooking & Fire Lighting
What is Bush Cooking?
In this fun and hands-on session, participants learn to use different cooking methods commonly used in the outdoors. This session also. They’ll explore how each method works, understand the fire triangle, and put their skills to the test by cooking up delicious pancakes in the bush.
Why do it?
Bush Cooking is a great way to build confidence around fire and stove safety while having a blast outdoors. It’s a tasty, interactive introduction to outdoor cooking that blends practical learning with teamwork, creativity, and a whole lot of fun.
Bush Skills
What is Bush Skills?
This interactive session introduces participants to the skills and knowledge needed to stay safe in the outdoors. Through hands-on scenarios and group challenges, participants actively learn the principles of the Outdoor Safety Code—focusing on preparation, awareness, and response.
Why do it?
Outdoor Safety empowers participants with the confidence and understanding to enjoy adventures with friends and family responsibly. It’s a fun and practical way to build awareness, reduce risks, and prepare for real-life situations in nature.
Climbing Wall
What is Climbing Wall?
This dynamic session combines bouldering and top rope climbing to introduce participants to the world of climbing in a safe, supportive environment. Working in small belay teams, participants learn proper climbing techniques, how to use equipment correctly, and how to keep each other safe—all while encouraging one another to take on personal challenges.
Why do it?
As a Qualworx-audited activity, Climbing offers a secure and structured introduction to vertical adventure. With a strong focus on Challenge by Choice, participants are empowered to push their limits at their own pace, building trust, confidence, and resilience—while having a whole lot of fun along the way.
Low Ropes
What is a Low Ropes course?
A low ropes course is a series of outdoor physical challenges set close to the ground involving ropes, cables, and wooden structures. These elements are designed to test balance, coordination, and teamwork, often requiring participants to navigate obstacles together without the need for harnesses or helmets.
Why do it?
Low ropes courses are powerful tools for building trust, communication, and collaboration within groups. They encourage problem-solving, leadership, and resilience in a fun, supportive environment—making them ideal for team development, youth programs, and personal growth experiences.
Mountain Biking
What is Mountain Biking?
This session introduces participants to the core skills of mountain biking, including correct braking, gear use, and downhill technique. Once riders demonstrate safe control of their bikes, the group sets off on a trail ride through the stunning Shakespear Regional Park. The Y instructors work closely with each participant to help them reach the standard needed for trail riding, with safety as the top priority.
Why do it?
Most people know how to ride a bike—but this is a chance to take it to the next level. Mountain Biking offers a safe and exciting introduction to more advanced riding, set in one of New Zealand’s most beautiful coastal parks. With sweeping views, native bush, and flowing trails, it’s a fun and confidence-building way to explore the outdoors.
Note: This activity is suitable for Year 7 and above only. All riders' abilities will be assessed before departing on the ride, if a rider is determined to not be able to safely partake, they will remain behind and can join another activity where possible.
Mountain Boarding
What is Mountain Boarding?
Mountain Boarding is a thrilling mix between snowboarding and skateboarding, using boards with large off-road wheels to ride across varied terrain. Participants start on flat ground and progress to downhill runs, slaloms, and even steeper trails—developing skills at their own pace while staying connected as a group.
Why do it?
This fun and fast-paced activity is unlike anything else offered at most camps. It’s a unique chance to try something new, build confidence quickly, and experience the excitement of outdoor riding in the stunning natural setting of Shakespear Regional Park. With sweeping views, open spaces, and a supportive learning environment, Mountain Boarding is a standout experience that’s as memorable as it is exhilarating.
Orienteering
What is Orienteering?
Orienteering is an outdoor navigation sport where participants use a map and to find checkpoints across our beautiful park, it combines physical activity with mental challenge, requiring quick decision-making and spatial awareness.
Why do it?
Orienteering builds confidence, independence, and problem-solving skills while encouraging exploration and appreciation of the natural environment. It’s a fun and engaging way to improve fitness, teamwork, and navigation abilities—suitable for all ages and skill levels.
Orienteering is one of our activities that can be self-led by a member of your group, ask our team for more information!
Pioneering
What is Pioneering?
A construction based, team building, problem solving activity, involving basic knot tying.
Chariots - Work together as one team—or split into two groups—to design and build a chariot using ropes and wood capable of safely carrying one teammate.
Catapults - With the help of the whole team, build a catapult using ropes and wood, then compete in fun challenges to test its power, accuracy, and creativity.
Why do it?
All great options for learning how to work together while learning about structures and knot tying.
Shelter Building
What is Shelter Building?
In this hands-on survival challenge, teams work together to build emergency shelters in the bush using a mix of natural materials and specialist equipment. It’s a practical, creative activity that encourages problem-solving and teamwork in an outdoor setting.
Why do it?
Shelter Building teaches not just how to construct a shelter, but why it’s important in real-life situations. It’s a great challenge for both the thinkers and the doers—blending practical skills with critical thinking and group collaboration.
Team Challenges
What is Team Challenges?
Team Challenges are a series of engaging activities designed to test a groups mental agility, physical coordination, and practical skills. Participants work together to solve problems, communicate effectively, and support one another—often discovering new strengths and breaking down personal and group barriers along the way.
Why do it?
This is a fun and energizing way to build teamwork, spark creativity, and give everyone a chance to shine. Whether you're strengthening group dynamics or just looking for a memorable shared experience, Team Challenges bring out the best in every participant. Suitable for all different ages and group types
A scaled down limited version of Team Challenges can also be self-led, get in touch with our team for more information.
UHF Radios
What is UHF Radios?
Students learn to use walkie-talkie radios while exploring the camp and playing interactive games like sardines—a fun twist on hide and seek. The activity is full of energy and excitement, blending communication practice with adventure and play.
Why do it?
This activity offers a perfect mix of instant engagement and valuable learning. It helps participants develop clear speaking, active listening, and structured communication skills—all while having a great time in a dynamic outdoor setting.
UHF Radios can be self-led by a member of your group which is budget friendly and thoroughly enjoyable, get in touch for more information.
Multi-Sport / Wizards
What is Multi-Sport?
A high-energy team event that brings together the skills, knowledge, and experience gained from previous activities during your stay. Groups must have completed orienteering and at least two other land-based challenges to take part. Teams compete in a series of physical and strategic tasks designed to test everything they’ve learned.
Why do it?
It’s the perfect way to wrap up your programme—bringing all the elements together in a fun, competitive format that celebrates teamwork, growth, and achievement.
Wizards & Warlocks Edition
What is it?
A magical themed twist on the Multi-Sport Challenge where your group becomes adventurers racing around the park to complete challenges at different stations. Each station earns your team points, and the group with the most points wins the quest!
This version adds imagination, role-play, and excitement to the challenge—making it a memorable and engaging way to reinforce teamwork, strategy, and creativity and have fun while wrapping up an amazing week at camp.
Tramp to Camp
What is Tramp to Camp?
After meeting at the entrance to the park, participants are guided by The Y instructors on a scenic walk through the regional park, exploring its natural beauty and hidden highlights. Along the way, students take turns leading the group, building confidence and connection before arriving at Shakespear Lodge. Multiple route options allow for flexibility and discovery.
Why do it?
This gentle introduction to camp life helps groups get familiar with their surroundings, spot native wildlife, and ease into the week ahead. It also gives group leaders a chance to settle in peacefully. Our friendly team can help with all logistics including moving all your large bags to the lodge from the meeting point while you enjoy a beautiful hike.
Sanctuary Discovery
What is Sanctuary Discovery?
An educational talk that outlines why the sanctuary is needed, what it looks like now, what it means for native wildlife, the plan for the future, and what people can do to get involved. The Y Shakespear Lodge has a strong relationship with the Shakespear Open Sanctuary Society and will organise this activity for you during your stay
Why do it?
It is ideal for the afternoon of your arrival day or in the morning of your departure day. The entire fee for this activity goes to SOSSI to help with their fundraising for their ongoing work.
NB - run by a SOSSI volunteer
Regional Park Give Back
What is Regional Park Give Back?
Staying in a regional park and open sanctuary is not something you get to do every day. To say thank you to the environment and support the work the Auckland Council is doing in the regional park why not volunteer some of your time to give back? Tasks could include track maintenance, beach clean ups, tree planting and more. Let us know what you might be interested in doing and we will try to facilitate this.
Why do it?
This is a whole group activity, ideal for the afternoon of your arrival day or the morning of your departure day. A chance to give back to the park you have been staying in. It is also a great chance for your group to develop environmental skills.
NB run by an Auckland Council Park Ranger
Let our expert team design your programme!
With over 30 years of experience planning camps for all different types of groups, we understand what makes each group unique—reach out to The Y Shakespear Lodge and let us tailor a programme just for you
