DON'T WORRY ABOUT THE $
If you want to come on this adventure, money should not be a barrier. Sometimes there’s more to it than just money, we get it, so tell us about your situation and we’ll do our best to help.
Spirit of Adventure is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity too good to pass up. So it’s just as well we have friends and supporters who generously provide us with funding, to help make this dream a reality for those who need a bit of extra help.
We accept applications for voyage contributions every few months. See below for our current application schedule.
Funding Applications Open: 15 June – 5 July
This funding round will consider applications for voyages departing before the end of 2026 (Voyages 946–955).
We aim to notify applicants of the outcome by mid-July, or sooner where possible.
Funding rounds are offered every few months. Applications for voyages departing in January 2027 and beyond will be considered in the next funding round, which is expected to open in mid-September.
APPLY HERE
WHAT KIND OF SUPPORT?
There are a few different circumstances which may apply to your situation. Some of the reasons a funding contribution can be offered:
Money is a bit tight at the moment, but joining a voyage is exactly what you need
Your family/you can pay for some of the cost, but you need help with the rest
You have worked hard and or contributed to your community in a meaningful way and would love some support based on merit
Regional support – we currently have specific funding available for young people from the following regions: Canterbury, Otago, Southland, Northland, Gisborne, Waikato, Manawatu.
WHAT YOU'LL NEED
Here’s some of the questions we’ll ask and things you’ll need to apply:
How much you able to contribute? We do expect a koha – but you can talk to us if this is a challenge
Have you or will you be doing any fundraising of your own?
Who is endorsing your application – name, phone and email (not a family member)
A letter or email from the person supporting your application (this could be a teacher, kaumatua, employer, community leader)
To have a parent/guardian sign your application
You must be a NZ Citizen or Resident
ARE YOU READY TO APPLY?
First make sure you've set up your Spirit of Adventure Profile – you can do that here
Check the voyage schedule and note which voyage you would like to join. See above note on application timing and available voyages in each application period
Know how much you can afford to pay yourself right now. We do expect all applicants to contribute something towards the cost of a voyage. This helps to demonstrate your commitment and desire to attend, even if the amount you can afford is small.
Make sure you meet the voyage and medical criteria
If you require urgent support (outside of our standard application dates) please email us.