Dreamers head south for the adventure of a lifetime
"The Otago Rail Trail taught me that I’m stronger than I think. Every hill I climbed on my bike reminded me that I can overcome challenges with determination and a little encouragement from my friends.
Visiting the university made me realise that my future is full of possibilities if I work hard and dream big."
Te Ataahua Haimon Year 12 Dreamer
In a world where opportunity often feels out of reach, there are moments that spark hope and ignite the belief that anything is possible. 7 young Dreamers have just returned from a 6 day trip filled with these moments – a journey that took them far beyond the familiar surroundings of their community to explore new horizons, to establish new belief in their future potential, and find the courage to dream bigger.
Dreamers Kaian Burt, Tairoan Povey, Awatea Poutai, Trent Bowater, Sosefina Taamia, Te Ataahua Haimon, and Te Arii Kupa-Wichman from Year 11, 12 and 13 at Tikipunga High School first set off on a three-day, 96 km journey on sections of the Otago Rail Trail where they experienced the stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture of Central Otago as they cycled through historic sites, beautiful scenery, and welcoming towns. For many this was their first trip to the South Island or even south of Auckland. This part of the adventure was made possible through our partnership with the Luxury Rail Trail Company, who generously donated both this cost of this leg and their time to spend with the Dreamers.
This adventure was then followed by visits to Otago University and Polytechnic campuses, also partners of I Have a Dream where Dreamers met tutors, explored academic pathways, and envisioned future opportunities that align with their dreams and ambitions.
Below is a day by day account of this epic adventure.
Day 1: Monday, 2 December 2024
Our journey kicked off with eager anticipation as Lucia Kotzé (Year 12 Navigator), Hui Hopa (Year 13 Navigator), and Mo Matautia-Tepania (General Manager – Operations), met Dreamers and the Whānau for an early start at the I Have a Dream House in Whangārei.
Excitement filled the air as Mo drove us to the airport, where we embarked on our flight to the breathtaking landscapes of Queenstown.
Upon our arrival in Queenstown, we were warmly greeted by Alicia from the Luxury Trail Company, who made us feel at home right away. A short drive took us to our accommodation at the Central Clyde Boutique, where comfort and charm set the tone for our stay.
Later that afternoon, the Dreamers were fitted with their bikes and given a safety briefing. Their enthusiasm was contagious as they pedalled around Clyde, testing their gear and getting a feel for the trail.
Dinner at local eatery Paulina’s was a perfect end to the day, offering us the opportunity to bond, laugh, and prepare for the adventures ahead.
Day 2: Tuesday, 3 December 2024 – Auripo to Clyde – 54km of Central Otago Beauty
I Have a Dream New Zealand Founder and Chairperson Scott Gilmour joined the Navigators and Dreamers from Day 2 onwards. The day began with a 9:30 AM transfer to Auripo, where we started a 54km ride along the Central Otago Rail Trail. This section of the trail offered stunning scenery, with historic viaducts, tunnels, and wide-open landscapes that showcased the region’s charm.
A well-earned treat awaited Alicia, Scott and the Dreamers in Clyde, where they enjoyed refreshing ice cream under the warm Central Otago sun. We ended the day with another delightful dinner at Paulina’s, reflecting on the progress we’d made and the memories we were creating.
The Luxury Trail Company’s attention to detail was impeccable, with seamless support throughout the ride.
Day 3: Wednesday, 4 December 2024 -42km on the Lake Dunstan Trail
We transferred from Clyde to Cromwell for the final day of cycling. The journey along the Lake Dunstan Trail was breathtaking, tracing the Clutha River’s turquoise waters through dramatic landscapes and over suspension bridges. The scenery was unforgettable, and the high-quality e-bikes provided by The Luxury Trail Company ensured everyone could enjoy the ride comfortably. Exhaustion was evident, but so was the pride in their achievement.
Dinner that evening was a much quieter affair, with the Dreamers nearly nodding off at the table, completely worn out from the day’s efforts. Their exhaustion was a true testament to their perseverance and determination.
Before departing, we expressed our heartfelt gratitude to Alicia and Nick for their incredible generosity and support throughout our journey. With warm goodbyes, we headed to Dunedin to embark on the second half of our trip.
Day 3 part 2: Wednesday, 4 December 2024 – Arriving in Dunedin
In Dunedin, the Dreamers transitioned from physical challenges to academic exploration. On arrival we were welcomed by our accommodation for the next 3 nights. Our stay at Otago University’s Hayward College, made possible by the incredible support of Amber Robertson. From the moment we arrived, the Dreamers were struck by the welcoming atmosphere and the sense of belonging that Hayward College exudes.
The modern, comfortable facilities and the vibrant energy of the halls provided an authentic taste of university life. Among the favourite features were the pool table, where the Dreamers enjoyed friendly competitions that sparked laughter and camaraderie, and the excellent hot chocolate machine, which became an instant hit. Gathering around for a warm drink after a long day exploring the university was a simple yet memorable experience that added to the overall charm of our stay.
For many, staying at Hayward College was not only a memorable experience but also a motivating factor in their aspirations for higher education. The time spent there was filled with laughter, reflection, and anticipation for what the future might hold, making it a standout feature of the trip.
Day 4: Thursday, 5 December 2024 – University Visit
Our education exploration began with a warm welcome from Lizzy Lukeman (Alumni Relations Advisor) at the University of Otago Clocktower Building, who set the tone for our visit with her enthusiasm and support.
The Dreamers then had the privilege of meeting key university representatives Greg Heller (Liaison Officer), Sandra Spence (Liaison Officer) and Tama Walker Kaitakawaeka (Community Liaison Officer) Te Huka Mātauraka (the Māori Centre) who shared insights about their roles and the pathways available to students.
Dreamers were given an engaging challenge during this session, designed to test their creativity and teamwork. It was a hit, and their excitement grew as they received prizes for their efforts, adding a fun and competitive element to the day. This interactive activity helped break the ice and allowed the Dreamers to connect with the university representatives on a personal level.
Later, the Dreamers visited the BNZ Bloomberg Market Lab, where Dr. Muhammad A. Cheema, Senior Lecturer in Finance and Director of the Lab, demonstrated the cutting-edge technology used to analyse real-time global market data. The Dreamers were in awe as they observed this complex system in action, providing a tangible connection between education and the dynamic world of finance.
We also reconnected with Quentin Johnson, a passionate advocate for our Kaupapa, who started a “Sponsor a Dreamer” donation after hearing Scott’s talk at the Otago Business School in 2021. Quentin shared his experiences teaching chess to young people and how the long-term relationships with his students shaped their development. As a near-grandmaster, Quentin captivated the Dreamers with stories of his chess matches, including one with Genesis (the Cliff Curtis character from Dark Knight), inspiring them with his passion and dedication.
Steph Kerslake (Liaison Advisor with Otago Polytechnic), warmly welcomed the Dreamers on a guided tour of the Polytechnic’s campus, providing an engaging and inspiring experience. She shared valuable insights into the diverse programs and opportunities available, emphasizing pathways that align with the Dreamers’ aspirations. Steph’s friendly and approachable demeanour created an open environment where the students felt encouraged to ask questions and explore their interests. Her passion for education and her dedication to supporting youth shone through as she highlighted resources, facilities, and success stories that showcased the vibrant learning community at Otago Polytechnic.
Visiting Otago Polytechnic, the Dreamers then explored the Design Department, meeting Thomas Te Whaiti-Henry and Caroline McCaw, who showcased innovative projects that combined creativity with real-world problem-solving. At the Nursing Department, Beth Speirs introduced the Dreamers to the compassionate and high-demand field of nursing, sharing insights into the vital role nurses play in healthcare.
In the Department of Geology, a visitor from Auckland shared the department’s pioneering work in geoscience. The Dreamers learned about career opportunities in environmental protection, renewable energy, and natural hazard assessment—fields essential for a sustainable future.
After a day filled with learning and inspiration, the Dreamers explored the Unipol Recreation Centre, where Dan Porter and Liz Campbell warmly welcomed them. Thanks to Dan’s generosity, the Dreamers enjoyed free access to world-class recreational and sporting facilities, rounding off the day with fun and laughter.
Scott and most of the Dreamers embraced the challenge of walking to the top of Baldwin Street, recognised by the Guinness World Records as the steepest street in the world. This iconic street gains more altitude in 10 horizontal meters (33 ft) than any other, measured along its centreline. Undeterred by the incline, they reached the summit and celebrated their achievement by dancing all the way back down.
We enjoyed dinner at Velvet Burger with Jaxson Tautala, a 2022 First Foundation Scholarship Award winner. Jaxson, who recently completed his master’s at Otago and is preparing for international opportunities in 2025, shared his journey and experiences. His story resonated deeply with the Dreamers, especially Awatea, Trent, and Sosefina, who are on their own scholarship journeys. After dinner Scott took the Dreamers to Signal Hill where they enjoyed sweeping views of Dunedin.
Day 5: Expanding Horizons and Building Connections
On Friday morning, the Dreamers continued their campus tour, visiting key departments and facilities.
Our visit to the Career Development Centre at the University of Otago provided the Dreamers with invaluable insights into the support available to students as they navigate their future career paths. As a one-stop resource for students and employers, the centre offers a wide range of services designed to empower students to explore their interests, identify career opportunities, and prepare for the workforce.
This visit reinforced the university’s commitment to student success and left the Dreamers excited about the possibilities that lie ahead in their own career journeys.
After our inspiring visit to the Career Development Centre, where we picked up booklets filled with valuable resources for career planning, we continued our campus exploration with a stroll past the Law School. The historic building stood as a testament to Otago’s reputation for academic excellence, sparking curiosity among the Dreamers about the pathways available in legal studies.
Our next stop was the Link Student Centre, conveniently located beside the university’s very impressive library. The Link provided a welcoming and vibrant space for students to gather, study, and relax. Here, the Dreamers enjoyed a well-earned morning tea, which included cheese rolls and hot chocolate, a comforting and quintessentially Otago experience.
Each stop provided new perspectives and sparked discussions about potential career pathways. On Friday night, we celebrated the trip’s conclusion with dinner at Esplanade Restaurant at St. Clair Beach, enjoying stunning coastal views and delicious Italian cuisine.
Scott and the Dreamers strolled along St Clair Beach, the salty breeze tangling their laughter with the rhythmic crash of waves. Together, they basked in the simplicity of the moment, a reminder that dreams often start with small, meaningful steps along life’s shoreline.
Donnella Aitken-Ferguson, the Alumni Engagement Manager, welcomed us at the university library and led a tour through the stunning campus. Along the way, she shared fascinating stories about its history and the lively student community. The tour also featured an engaging visit to the Medical School, with a special focus on Dentistry.
Our tour continued to the extraordinary W.D. Trotter Anatomy Museum, we were welcomed by Chris Smith, the Museum Curator. The Dreamers were captivated by the unique anatomical specimens and models, some dating back to the late 1800s. The hands-on approach, coupled with the museum’s connection to cutting-edge research, left a lasting impression on the group.
This second leg of the trip offered a glimpse into student life at Otago. It was easy to imagine the Dreamers thriving in such an environment, surrounded by resources, community spaces, and opportunities to connect with their peers. The combination of exploration and moments to recharge made this day particularly memorable.
Day 6: Saturday, 7 December 2024 – Heading Home
On Saturday morning, we flew back to Whangārei, where Mo greeted us with her trademark warmth. To celebrate the end of our journey, she treated the Dreamers to a special brunch on the way home to Whangārei where Dreamers were reunited with their Whānau — a perfect conclusion to an extraordinary week.
This trip was more than a bike ride and university experience; it was a transformative journey for our Dreamers, a celebration of their boundless potential and a stepping stone toward their bright futures. From the inspiring people they met to the breathtaking places they explored; every moment reinforced the limitless opportunities that await these young leaders.
Their visits to universities and polytechnics were filled with engaging tours and thought-provoking discussions, sparking curiosity and ambition as they discovered diverse pathways to higher education. Watching their excitement and determination grow with each step of the journey was truly inspiring.
As the trip drew to a close, heartfelt conversations about their dreams and aspirations revealed how much they had grown in confidence, resilience, and vision.
The Dreamers returned home with unforgettable memories, a renewed sense of purpose, and the courage to chase their aspirations. This journey was a significant milestone, and we can’t wait to see where their next steps will lead. The future is theirs to shape, and we are privileged to walk alongside them on this incredible path.
Coming full circle
The Otago Rail Trail and University Visit trip is a meaningful journey that bridges past and present for I Have a Dream. This year’s trip echoes the successful experience of 2019, which was featured in our Annual Report (pages 8–11) and the UoO Alumni Magazine (pages 22–25).
One of the standout participants from that trip was Davontae Bristowe, who has since returned as one of our Trustees. His journey from being a Dreamer to becoming a leader within our organisation is a testament to the transformative power of this experience. Take a moment to learn about Davontae’s inspiring journey—from starting as a Dreamer to visiting Otago University, pursuing his studies there, and ultimately becoming a Trustee for I Have a Dream. Davontae’s Story
For many of our Dreamers, exposure to tertiary education opportunities is limited. This trip is designed to expand their horizons and ignite their ambitions. It’s inspiring to witness how the visit to the University of Otago opens their eyes to a world of possibilities—exploring the campus, staying in a college, and learning about the 350 diverse diploma and degree options across the University and Polytechnic.
For some, this has been the spark to motivate them toward pursuing higher education, proving that this trip is more than just a bike ride—it’s a journey toward a brighter future.
Thank you
A heartfelt thank you to Nick White, (Founder and Owner of Luxury Trail Company), for sponsoring our seven Dreamers and two Navigators on the Otago Rail Trail adventure. Nick’s passion for delivering thoughtfully curated, luxury small-group experiences shines through in every detail, from e-bike rentals and a dedicated guide to kai and accommodation. His generosity and vision have left a lasting impact on our Dreamers, and we are incredibly grateful for his support.
A huge shoutout and heartfelt thank you to Lizzy Lukeman, (Alumni Relations Advisor at the University of Otago). Lizzy’s incredible support and warm hospitality during our visit made our experience truly special. Her dedication to connecting people and creating meaningful opportunities exemplifies the spirit of the University. We are so grateful for Lizzy’s efforts in showcasing the vibrant academic and alumni community at Otago. Thank you for inspiring our Dreamers and making our adventure unforgettable!
