South Island Cadets gather in Otago for three-day adventure challenge

More than 100 young people from New Zealand Cadet Forces units around the South Island have come together for the annual Exercise Trident Combined Adventure Camp.

24 October, 2023

The three-day event took place over Labour Weekend at Tirohanga Camp in Mosgiel, Back Beach in Port Chalmers and Dunedin’s Kensington Army Hall.

Members of Navy Cadets, Army Cadets and Air Cadets travelled from the likes of Invercargill and Christchurch, to compete in 15 activities on land and on the water.

Lieutenant Malcolm Rudd, who oversees the event, said it was an action-packed experience like no other.

“Exercise Trident is more than just an outdoor event, it's an opportunity for young people aged 13 to 19 to develop their leadership skills, teamwork, and resilience,” he said.

“The tri-corps adventure camp is an epic event that’s become a Labour Weekend tradition. It provides an unforgettable experience for the cadets and fosters a sense of camaraderie among the participants.”

More than 100 young people from New Zealand Cadet Forces units around the South Island took part in the annual Exercise Trident Combined Adventure Camp in Otago, over Labour Weekend.

Now in its third year, the event brings together eight units organised into eight mixed teams.

The organisers have designed a variety of team-building activities and challenges, aimed at encouraging personal growth among the participants. That includes sailing, sea survival, orienteering, confidence courses, first aid demonstrations and games.

“We were excited to have 20 dedicated volunteer staff members on hand to guide and mentor the participants as they took on these challenges,” Lieutenant Rudd said.