About The Trust
Spirit of Adventure Trust was set up in 1972 by Lou Fisher who had a vision to empower the youth of New Zealand.
The Trust has gained and maintained a reputation in New Zealand as a highly respected youth development organisation providing a unique environment for youth development, where the focus of learning is on team-work, developing skills of communication, self-reliance, self-discipline, self-esteem, resilience, confidence and leadership. Learning to sail a tall ship is only a small part of the programmes offered.
We’ve taken tens of thousands of young New Zealanders to sea on voyages of personal discovery on board our tall ship, Spirit of New Zealand. Although we’re described as a sail training organisation, our main objective is to develop positive qualities in our young people.
Today, Spirit of New Zealand is believed to be the world’s busiest youth ship, sailing around ten months of the year. Subject to stringent, on-going maintenance surveys, refits and audits, Spirit of New Zealand is expected to be able to continue operating youth voyages until around 2035.
Values
All of our people live and breathe our values every day:
-
Excellence
By aiming high and persevering in the face of difficulties
-
Innovation
By thinking critically, creatively and reflectively
-
Diversity
As found in our cultures, languages, and heritages
-
Equity
Through fairness, social justice and citizenship
-
Community and participation
For the common good
-
Integrity
Which involves being honest, responsible, accountable and acting ethically
-
Environmental sustainability
Care for the environment
-
Impact
Making a difference socially and emotionally
International Awards
-
2016 - Volunteer of the Year
Tony Cummings (long-time volunteer)Awarded to a volunteer who has made a notable contribution to helping young people achieve life-changing experiences through sail training.
-
2013 - Sail Training International Friendship Trophy
Presented to the ship’s company that has contributed most to promoting international friendship and understanding.
-
2013 - Janka Bielak Medal
Captain Nigel WrightAwarded to a person who has made an outstanding contribution to international friendship and understanding.
-
2011 - Young Sail Trainer of the Year
Luke Galuszewski (First Mate)Awarded to the highest performing sail trainer under the age of 25.
-
2010 - Sailing Trainer of the Year
Captain Paul Leppington (Marine Director/Senior Master)Awarded to the highest performing professional sail trainer overall.
-
2009 - Volunteer of the Year
Sheila Budgen (long-time volunteer)Awarded to a volunteer who has made a notable contribution to helping young people achieve life-changing experiences through sail training.
-
2008 - Sail Training Organisation of the Year (large vessels)
Awarded to an organisation that demonstrates excellence, innovation and best practice leadership training for young people at sea.
Crew Awards
Topgallant Award
This award was introduced in 1998 to recognise outstanding service over a period of more than ten years. Both volunteers and the Trust’s permanent staff are considered eligible. Generally two are given annually.
Topsail Award
This award was introduced in 2001 to honour outstanding service by a past participant who has contributed their time over a period of three years or more. Generally one is given each year.
2019 Award Winners
-
Topgallant Award Winner - Andrew Spencer
-
Topgallant Award Winner - Andrew Moore
-
Topgallant Award Winner - Sarah Jane Guild
-
Topgallant Award Winner - Suzy Carryer
-
Topgallant Award Winner - Keith Maydon
-
Topsail Award Winner - Dayna Johns
-
Topsail Award Winner - Lewis Gordon