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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 historyteam and facilities below

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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.

  • exhibit the capacity and natural inclination to respond, nurture, and care for others;

  • have integrity and mana;

  • have a sense of occasion;  be welcoming; demonstrate hospitality;

  • show generosity of spirit;  be giving and understand the importance of, and demonstrate reciprocity;

  • 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.

  • form, strengthen & maintain bonds with peers;

  • value and promote loyalty and inclusiveness;

  • be a role model, team player, and connect well with others;

  • demonstrate an awareness of relationships and positions;

  • be aware of their responsibility, especially in relationship to others;

  • 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.

  • a very strong awareness of global environmental issues and responsibility;

  • recognizes that human welfare and care for the environment are inextricably linked;

  • is  perceptive – aware of the need to nurture and maintain knowledge, environment & resources for the short term or long term future;

  • demonstrates that need comes before self;

  • a gifted storyteller: have an excellent memory, knowledge of and pride in linking whakapapa, iwi, geography.

Kaupapa

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.

Our History
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HAVE A QUESTION?

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