Booked on a Course
How fit do I have to be?
Outward Bound courses involve physical challenge. The fitter you are, the easier you will find some of the activities. You need to be able to participate in a full day’s physical activity and run or fast walk three kilometres in 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 disabilities 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 often 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. If there are expensive items on the list that you need, contact the Wellington office to find out what you can borrow. More gear information.
How do I get there?
It is your responsibility to get to the Picton Ferry Terminal by 12.30pm on your course start day. You will be dropped back at the Picton Ferry Terminal 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 arrive at Anakiwa. The environment at Anakiwa is supportive, healthy and motivating and many people use their time to try to become healthier. There are many things you can do to cut down and quit smoking, the best information is available from:www.quit.org.nz or call 0800 778 778.
What is the average age on a course?
The average ages for courses are:
Mind, Body and Soul - 17 years
Classic - 21 years
Masters - 33 years
Navigator - 33 years
Discovery - 36 years
Discovery 40+ - 49 years
Can I arrive late or leave early?
It is important that you arrive and depart at the times specified. Because of the way the course are structured, there is no way of knowing where you will be at a particular time. You will not be able to join your watch once they have started a scheme. 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 course) are subject to different cancellation and payment conditions. Refer to the professional enrolment form for details. Funding your course.
