The Award in Aotearoa

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Hillary Award in Aotearoa New Zealand empowers rangatahi to discover who they are and what they’re capable of through challenge, adventure and service. As part of the world’s leading youth achievement award, recognised in more than 120 countries and territories, the Duke of Ed connects young people to a global movement that inspires confidence, resilience, leadership and purpose.

Whether it’s learning new skills, exploring the outdoors, supporting whānau and hapori, or stepping beyond their comfort zone, every participant shapes their own journey. The Duke of Edinburgh’s Hillary Award is an opportunity for rangatahi to grow, make a difference and gain experiences that stay with them for life.

Vision

Our vision is to see all rangatahi thriving with the skills, tools and confidence to own their journey and shape their future

Mission

Our Mission is to enable rangatahi across Aotearoa to grow their strengths and pursue their goals through non-formal, holistic education that honours their mana, showcases their mahi and equips them for a dynamic future

Te Tiriti o Waitangai

The Duke of Edinburgh's Hillary Award in Aotearoa New Zealand is committed to giving effect to Te Tiriti o Waitangi. We aim to develop authentic relationships with Tangata Whenua; to ensure the Award is relevant and accessible to all rangatahi. The Award fosters kaitiakitanga of the environment, communities and cultures in Aotearoa New Zealand. We champion adventurous spirit, courageous leadership, purposeful partnerships, and a sense of service. The Award empowers all rangatahi to build skills for the future and confidence to navigate a changing world.

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Our Guiding Principles

There are 10 Guiding Principles that underpin the philosophy of the Award. They are designed to ensure that a young person has a meaningful and purposeful journey through their Award, as well as ensuring that the impact of achieving their Award provides a lasting personal legacy.

The Award’s Guiding Principles are as follows:
Individual

Individuals design their own programme, which can be tailored to suit their personal circumstances, choices, and local provision. They start at whichever level suits them best and they can take as long as they wish (within the age limit) to achieve their Award.

Non-competitive

Doing their Award is a personal challenge and not a competition against others. Every participant’s programme is tailor-made to reflect their individual starting point, abilities and interests.

Achievable

An Award is achievable by any individual who chooses to take up the challenge, inclusive of any ability, gender, background or location, with the right guidance and inspiration.

Voluntary

Whilst the Award may be offered within school, college, work time, custody or extra-curricular activity, individuals choose to do a programme and must commit a substantial amount of their free time to undertake their activities

Developmental

Participating in their Award programme fosters personal and social development. Individuals gain valuable experiences and life skills, grow in confidence and become more aware of their environment and community, transforming them into responsible young adults.

Balanced

The Award provides a balanced framework to develop the individual’s mind, body and community spirit by engaging them in four activities at Bronze and Silver levels, and five activities at Gold level.

Progressive

At each level, the Award demands progressively more time, commitment and responsibility from the participant.

Inspirational

The Award inspires individuals to exceed their expectations. They are encouraged to set their own challenges and goals before starting an activity, aim for these goals and by showing improvement, will move towards achieving an Award.

Persistence

The Award requires persistence and cannot be completed with a short burst of enthusiasm. Participants are encouraged to continue with activities and to maintain their interest beyond their programme requirements.

Enjoyable

Participants and Leaders should find the Award enjoyable, fulfilling and rewarding.

Let's Get Started!

The Duke of Edinburgh's Hillary Award is an opportunity to challenge yourself, learn new skills, and make a real impact - all while having an unforgettable adventure.
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