Shine and Explore - An Outdoor Adventure Programme for Tamariki with Spina Bifida, and Whānau.

Shine and Explore, Marahau 2026 is an innovative 5 day Outdoor Adventure Programme for tamariki and rangatahi living with Spina bifida and their whānau.

Launching in Mārahau, Tasman, and aiming to become an annual event, it supports wellbeing, resilience and connection through fun and therapeutic experiences together in the outdoors.

Shine and Explore is grounded in a holistic, whānau-centred approach, includes pre and post programme therapeutic support and aligns with Enabling Good Lives principles. The five day programme includes:

• Accessible Outdoor Adventures. Canoeing, kayaking, swimming, camping, an Abel Tasman hikoi and Waka Ama cultural experience.

• Therapeutic Support. Physiotherapy, and occupational therapy, craniosacral therapy, equine and pet therapy.

• Creative/social activities. Circus workshops, music, arts, team-building and group events.

Created and developed by our small team of committed volunteers at West Coast Early Intervention Trust, Shine and Explore will be facilitated by the Boyle River Outdoor Education Centre team and local outdoor providers.

Shine and Explore has 33 participants from across Aotearoa (8 young people living with Spina bifida, 7 siblings, and 18 parents/whānau). The programme is at full capacity with a waitlist highlighting strong demand.

We are currently fundraising to keep the programme costs as low as possible for families and would appreciate your support through a Give a Little donation.