Youthtown is excited to announce a new partnership with the William Pike Challenge, a proven youth development programme that inspires tamariki to step outside their comfort zones and go into the world with more confidence.

Delivered over a full school year, the William Pike Challenge brings together three powerful elements - outdoor adventures, community service, and passion projects. These pillars give young people opportunities to build their resilience, wellbeing, confidence, skills, and leadership, while connecting with their communities and pursuing their interests. With more than 30,000 young New Zealanders already impacted, the programme provides a trusted framework that helps rangatahi discover their strengths and unlock their potential.

Through this partnership, Youthtown will provide Education Outside the Classroom (EOTC) programmes that directly support the outdoor activities component of the Challenge. Together, we will give schools across Canterbury a trusted framework and experienced providers to help rangatahi thrive through real-world experiences.

“We are excited to work alongside William Pike and his team to inspire more young people in Canterbury to step outside their comfort zones, take on new challenges, and discover their potential,” says Fiona Allan, Youthtown CEO.

“The William Pike Challenge prepares young people for tomorrow’s world. With Youthtown’s expertise and reach, we’ll empower even more students to build their confidence and thrive across Canterbury,” says William Pike, Founder of the William Pike Challenge. “Working alongside Youthtown means we can also energise teachers with great outdoor activity options that are safe for students and delivered to the highest quality.”

This partnership is another step in Youthtown’s commitment to empowering young people to be the best they can be.

Article added: Monday 24 November 2025