Connecting with the future

The wheels on the bus go round and round….. but how exactly do you navigate the network?

Connecting bus routes or connecting young people, a recently completed pilot programme at Hurunui District Council has achieved both.

A group of approximately 40 Year 7 and 8 students from Hurunui have benefitted from Council Youth Programme’s Year 7/8 Transitions pilot project which took place throughout 2025, giving young people the tools, confidence and friendships needed as they begin the transition into high school.

Funded by the Rāta Foundation and Hurunui Youth Council (HYC), it’s involved three planned events. The first was held at Omihi Hall in June familiarising students with high school life from navigating timetables to where to go to for support in their new environment. The second was a leadership camp held during the July holidays at Boyle River Outdoor Education Centre Camp.

In November was the final event, the Amazing Race where approximately 20 students learned how to navigate public transport in Christchurch.

Youth Development Officer Kimberley Spencer said for many young people in Hurunui, catching a bus or reading a timetable isn’t something they get to experience every day so the Year 7/8 Amazing Race in Christchurch turned that learning into real-life action.

Navigating the bus exchange, learning to read a bus timetable, building confidence, strengthening connections, and discovering just how capable they are when faced with new challenges were what Spencer described as real highlights.

“These are all important skills to hold close as they take on their next journey, whatever that looks like.”

Within HYC there is a portfolio called Transitions and Careers, some of its holding members are on this pilot programme, including HYC member Sylvia Jongerius who viewed the Amazing Race as a unique learning opportunity, with lots of fun along the way.

HYC Deputy Chair Madison Wayne said providing the opportunity for youth to ask questions and meet peers was exactly what the programme was aimed for.

“Across the three sessions it’s been great to see friendships forming and everyone’s confidence growing,” she said.

Hurunui’s schools involved in the pilot this year have been Omihi School, Greta Valley School, Waikari School and Waipara School.

Spencer says they’re keen to be involved again, and interest is already growing from other smaller schools across the district wanting to join the movement.