Engaging Educational Tours in Nature
Youth Journey Academy is dedicated to providing engaging and educational tours in the heart of New Zealand's natural beauty. Our tours are designed to inspire a love for nature and conservation in the youth. With a commitment to authenticity and thoughtfulness, we offer unique experiences that showcase the best of New Zealand's natural wonders.
Outdoor Activities
Immerse yourself in the great outdoors with our wide range of outdoor activities. From hiking through lush forests to exploring coastal ecosystems, our tours offer hands-on experiences that foster a deep connection with nature.
Hands-on Learning
Engage in hands-on activities that bring learning to life. Our interactive experiences allow youth to participate in conservation efforts, wildlife monitoring, and sustainable practices, empowering them to become stewards of the environment.
Conservation Services
Join us in our commitment to conservation. Through our dedicated conservation services, we aim to educate and inspire the next generation of environmental champions, fostering a sense of responsibility towards preserving our natural heritage.
Tour Packages
Discover our thoughtfully curated tour packages that take you on a journey to explore the diverse landscapes and ecosystems of New Zealand. Each package is designed to offer a unique and enriching experience for youth, blending adventure with educational insights.
Native Forests
Coastal Wonders
Wildlife Encounters
Meet Our Experienced Instructors
Chris Annandale
Chris Annandale grew up in a family with a passion for hunting and fishing, which instilled in him a remarkable enthusiasm and experience for the outdoors. He worked for the New Zealand Department of Conservation for nearly 40 years, working in areas such as pest control, trail construction, and the protection of endangered flora and fauna. Even after retiring, he continues to mentor young rangers for the Department of Conservation.
Julian Thomson
Julian Thomson is a science communicator and education consultant. He previously worked at the New Zealand Institute of Geology and Nuclear Sciences, where he was involved in science outreach, teacher training, and television documentary production. He was also a guest lecturer for National Geographic. Currently, he is employed by the New Zealand Ministry of Education to train teachers aspiring to teach outdoor STEM subjects.
Aggie zhang
Aggie is our bilingual instructor (Mandarin-English), a dedicated specialist with a deep understanding of New Zealand flora and fauna. Cross-cultural background enables her to create captivating, relevant, and age-appropriate tours that spark curiosity and foster a love & respect for nature for young travellers.
Shirley Porter
A retired middle school teacher has found her passion in conservation. Shirley is a walking encyclopaedia of nature. The mountains and the lakes in the Tongariro National Park has witnessed her dedication in decades. Together with her fellow volunteers, they are keeping the pest at bay in the region while restoring the vegetation.