ABOUT US
Situated in a natural bush setting adjacent to the Waiwhakaiho River, TOPEC has cabin accommodation, a large commercial kitchen in the main lodge, two classroom areas and separate staff quarters. The off-the-grid Eco Lodge conference and accommodation centre symbolise our environmental sustainability commitment.
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As a registered Private Training Establishment (PTE), TOPEC employs qualified teachers alongside highly-qualified, passionate instructors (N.Z. Outdoor Instructors Association (N.Z.O.I.A.) or equivalent.
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This combination provides the best learning programmes for the needs of students. Students participate in life-affirming experiences and realise they can influence their life in a positive way.
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Learn about our history, team and facilities below
Kaupapa
Manaakitanga:
generosity - honouring, caring and giving mana to people thus maintaining your own.
Ma- ta-u rourou, ma- taku rourou, ka ora ai te iwi
With your contribution and my contribution, the people will thrive.
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exhibit the capacity and natural inclination to respond, nurture, and care for others;
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have integrity and mana;
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have a sense of occasion; be welcoming; demonstrate hospitality;
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show generosity of spirit; be giving and understand the importance of, and demonstrate reciprocity;
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be strong in tautoko qualities (support; value that one person’s success is the success of the group).
Whanaungatanga:
family values - relationships
Ma- te tuakana ka to- tika te te-ina; Ma- te te-ina; ka to- tika te tuakana
By the elder’s actions the younger will find the right path.
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The reverse is also true. The younger keeps the older on the straight path, because of the responsibility the older one bears.
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form, strengthen & maintain bonds with peers;
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value and promote loyalty and inclusiveness;
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be a role model, team player, and connect well with others;
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demonstrate an awareness of relationships and positions;
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be aware of their responsibility, especially in relationship to others;
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be strong in tautoko (support: value that one person’s success is the success of the group).
Kaitiakitanga:
care taker / guardianship of knowledge, environment and resources.
Toi te kupu, toi te mana, toi te whenua
Guard the permanence of language, mana, and land.
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a very strong awareness of global environmental issues and responsibility;
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recognizes that human welfare and care for the environment are inextricably linked;
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is perceptive – aware of the need to nurture and maintain knowledge, environment & resources for the short term or long term future;
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demonstrates that need comes before self;
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a gifted storyteller: have an excellent memory, knowledge of and pride in linking whakapapa, iwi, geography.
OUR HISTORY
TOPEC was formed in 1986 as a charitable trust to provide outdoor education for Taranaki school students. Qualified teachers have always been employed and TOPEC has continued to commit to helping people connect with the outdoors; providing activities, training and educational opportunities that allow for individuals and groups to challenge themselves and develop new skills.
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In 2017, TOPEC became a Private Training Establishment accredited by NZQA to deliver qualifications on the New Zealand Framework and assess NCEA achievement and unit standards.
