Free from social media and digital technology
We are Te Ata Wharekawa
Te Ata Wharekawa is a place for growth, challenge, and connection.
We create immersive, live-in experiences for rangatahi (youth) at our Wharekawa Lodge campus on the eastern Coromandel Peninsula.
Our experiences are designed to build all areas of wellbeing — social, physical, emotional, and intellectual — while helping rangatahi step into independence and discover their strengths.
Through hands-on learning, shared responsibility, and deep connection with the whenua, rangatahi gain resilience, confidence, and a renewed appreciation for whānau and home.
Every young person deserves a moment that shapes them.
Stillness. Simplicity. Self.
The lessons learned here are often profound, lasting well beyond their time here, and can be truly life-changing. What sets Te Ata Wharekawa apart from others, is that we focus on building a strong sense of identity, deep connection to place, and intentional focus on personal growth at a pivotal stage in adolescence.
The Te Ata Wharekawa Difference
He maurea kai whiria!
Cherish the treasures that are yours to weave.
At Te Ata Wharekawa, every young person brings their own maurea — their unique strengths, stories, and potential. Our immersive experiences give rangatahi the space, support, and challenge to weave these treasures into something meaningful. Through connection, Te Ao Maori and hands-on learning in te taiao/the natural world, they grow resilience, independence, and a stronger sense of identity. This is learning that lasts a lifetime — grounded, transformative, and unforgettable.
Your story. Your strengths. Woven into every step.
"Self belief, responsibility, teamwork and an appreciation of nature are all aspects of the curriculum you deliver that is an essential foundation for any learning.
We have heard from our daughter during the experience and after, how hard certain emotional and physical aspects were but she also says that she felt safe, prepared and supported throughout. Which enabled her to stretch herself.
Now knowing that she can overcome mental and physical barriers, she is feeling more confident and strong which will support her moving forward in and out of school."
Parent feedback
"I feel less overwhelmed without social media and technology. I feel like I’ve made deeper connections with people."
Year 10 female student
"The outdoors has taught me that sometimes I doubt myself, but that I am capable if my mindset is positive. Nature has taught me to be resilient, to trust my instincts, and to be grateful for the many luxuries I have in my life."
Year 10 female student
"I've learnt to share and not be selfish, to help out and do those little things. I’ve learnt to listen to others and to check up and see if everything is ok."
Year 10 Male student
"In the first week we were asked to write what type of young woman we want to leave as? Mine was ‘a strong, independent young woman that has confidence, an amazing attitude and a positive view on my life.’ Being here has made me want to
achieve these goals and I definitely think I have. This journey has made my attitude change. I’ve never actually been this proud of myself - ever! "
Year 10 female
"Even when it might be a hard day, there’s always someone there to have a yarn with. Someone in your cabin will come up to you and say 'are you alright bro?' And then spend an hour or so with you just talking. I've made really good friends here."
