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The Expedition

 

This 3-day, 2-night adventure brings fathers and sons together in the mountains of Wānaka, combining long hikes, practical lessons, and survival-based challenges with the rugged backcountry as our classroom. Each day balances dynamic, team-focused activities with opportunities for rest and reflection, ensuring growth, connection, and shared success. By day, fathers and sons face physical and mental challenges together, building resilience and trust. By night, the focus shifts to fireside meals, relaxation, and meaningful conversation, providing space for connection, reflection, and personal insights.

 

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The Locations

Snow Farm, Pisa Range, Altitude: 4990ft

 

The changing seasons in Lake Wānaka add layers of challenge, inspiration, and beauty to this expedition. Summer brings long, warm days; Autumn transforms the landscape into a sea of color; Winter is cold and harsh; and Spring’s unpredictable weather adds extra excitement. Regardless of the season, participants can experience snow and cold temperatures at any time of the year, creating a true backcountry adventure.

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Itinerary

Day 1

 

Upon arrival at basecamp, fathers and sons unpack, settle in, and gather for an introduction to the expedition. This session sets the tone for the three days ahead, establishing goals, expectations, and fostering a strong bond between participants. Each pair will share their motivations for joining the expedition and the outcomes they hope to achieve together.

 

In the afternoon, we embark on our first hike, covering approximately 12 kilometers. Along the way, we introduce strategies for teamwork, communication, and managing stress, equipping fathers and sons with tools to support each other both on and off the expedition.

 

Later, participants take part in their first cold-water immersion session, including theory and a practical swim. As evening falls, day one concludes with free time around the fire, a space to relax, share stories, and enjoy a group dinner, building camaraderie and connection.

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Day 2

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The morning of day two is dedicated to reflection, allowing participants to assess their relationships, communication, and personal growth. This distraction-free environment gives fathers and sons time to consider how they can support each other more effectively, both during the expedition and at home.

 

In the afternoon, the adventure intensifies with a survival-based, team-focused challenge designed to push mental and physical limits. Participants work together, reinforcing trust, communication, and collaboration while developing resilience and leadership skills.

 

Following the challenge, we conclude with another cold-water immersion, then gather around the fire for storytelling and our final group dinner, cementing the bonds forged through the day.

 

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Day 3

 

Day three is performance and reflection day, focused on applying lessons from the expedition to daily life. Fathers and sons engage in activities that highlight teamwork, resilience, and shared leadership. Morning sessions cover practical strategies for supporting one another, including communication, problem-solving, and building healthy routines.

 

In the afternoon, we embark on a 6-kilometer hike to a hidden waterfall for the final cold-water immersion challenge and a moment of celebration. Here, participants pause to reflect on their journey, appreciate each other’s growth, and celebrate the strengthened father-son connection.

 

As the expedition concludes, we debrief, pack up base camp, and return to the final location.

 

Fathers and sons of all fitness levels are welcome, though participants should be prepared to hike up to 13 kilometers carrying a pack. Safety is our top priority, and if there are any health or fitness concerns, we can help create a preparation plan to ensure a safe and fully enjoyable experience.