Booked on a Course
How fit do I have to be?
Outward Bound courses involve physical challenge. The fitter you are the more you will enjoy your course right from Day 1. You need to be able to participate in a full day's physical activity and comfortably run three kilometres in under 25 minutes. There will be water activities, so ideally you need to be comfortable in water, but lifejackets will always be available. Courses for those with varying abilities and some custom design courses may have different fitness requirements. Click to download more information regarding fitness.
Can I phone home or take calls during the course?
Calls from home or friends will interrupt and distract your from your course so you won't be able to use your mobile phone while at Outward Bound - this is an opportunity to take time away for yourself. However, if you do really need to get in contact with home at any point during the course then you can talk to your instructors about arranging that.
What clothes do I need?
Outward Bound will provide you with all specialist gear required (this includes tents, sleeping bags, tramping packs, sleeping mats, life jackets and helmets). Once enrolled, you will be sent a comprehensive list of all the gear you will need to bring for your course. Many items on the list can be obtained cheaply from second hand stores. Some items can also be borrowed from Outward Bound such as water proof jackets, pants and boots. Items marked with a * on the gear list are available to borrow from Outward Bound if you cannot provide or borrow your own. More gear information.
How do I get there?
You need to get yourself to the Interislander ferry terminal in Picton by 12.30pm on your course start day. You will be dropped back at the Interislander ferry terminal in Picton by 12.30pm on the last course day (except the Navigator course which ends at 4.30pm). More travel information.
Can I smoke?
Outward Bound is a smoke free, alcohol free and non-prescription drug free environment, therefore you need to have quit smoking BEFORE you start your course. The environment at Outward Bound is supportive, healthy and motivating, and many people use their time to try to become healthier. There are many things you can do to quit smoking, the best information is available from: www.quit.org.nz or call 0800 778 778.
Can I arrive late or leave early?
You are required to arrive and depart at the times specified. Because of the way the courses are structured, there is no way of knowing where your Watch (group) will be at a particular time. You will not be able to join your watch once they have started an activity. The course finishes with a ceremony: this is your last opportunity to be together as a watch. We are unable to arrange for you to leave early.
When do I have to pay by?
Full course fees are due eight weeks before the course start date. If you enrol closer than eight weeks before the course start date, the full fee is payable immediately. Note that professional enrolments i.e. enrolments with fees paid by the employer or enrolments on our Navigator or Compass courses are subject to different cancellation and payment conditions. Refer to the professional enrolment form for details. Funding your course.
