FUNDING YOUR COURSE
Outward Bound isn’t just any course – it’s a once-in-a-lifetime investment in you. It’s about pushing past limits, gaining clarity, and unlocking a stronger, more capable version of yourself. The confidence, resilience, and skills you develop will stay with you long after your time in Anakiwa, and the person you become as a result is priceless.
We know cost can feel like a hurdle, but there are flexible ways to make it work. After your $749 deposit, you can spread the remaining balance with a payment plan. Pay what you can, when you can, or set up an automatic payment over time – just settle the balance 8 weeks before your course starts.
Ready to make it happen? Explore your options below, or get in touch at 0800 688 927 or funding@outwardbound.co.nz – we’re happy to help!
FUNDRAISING TOWARDS YOUR COURSE
A straightforward way to get to Outward Bound
Fundraising is one of the best ways to cover the cost of your course if you don’t have the full fee upfront.
Whether you’re 16 or 66, the fundraising option is open to all.
A family affair
Fundraising can help your family to feel more involved in your course. If you’re taking time out from family life to head to Anakiwa, making them your fundraising support crew can help them to connect to what you’re doing and why you’re doing it.
Get into the Outward Bound mindset
An ideal kick off to your Anakiwa experience, fundraising is a really satisfying way to achieve an Outward Bound course. It’s great preparation for the challenge ahead, getting you into the mindset of stepping out of your comfort zone and achieving goals.
CHOOSE YOUR FUNDRAISING ACTIVITIES
Use your skills
If you’re blessed with green fingers, offer your gardening services to neighbours via sites like Neighbourly. Got a creative eye? Sell your artwork or photos at a community market. Or if you’re a master baker, start selling your tasty creations at school or work.
By using your existing skills to bring in some funds for your course, you’ll enjoy and speed up the fundraising process.
"Sell stuff on TradeMe, do odd jobs for people, run fundraising events, bake cupcakes, ask friends and family for support…do whatever it takes! Set your sights on Outward Bound and do it!"
Jess Sowersby
Consider your timeframe
The longer you have to fundraise, the better. That way, you can watch your money slowly build up from a combination of sources. But if your course is looming or work/family life doesn’t allow you much time, consider one or two big-hitting fundraising activities such as a movie screening or quiz night.
Contact local service groups
Did you know there are over 500 community groups in New Zealand? Many of them have supported thousands of Outward Bound participants of all ages over the last 50 years. We encourage you to get in touch with your local Rotary, Lions or RSA clubs as a starting point.
Check out our letter templates and advice.
It’s worth noting that community groups don’t just support teenagers. If you can show how sponsorship towards an OB course would benefit you in the long term and your community, you have a great case to make.
Ask your employer
Many employers support their staff with a significant contribution to their Outward Bound course. When asking for a helping hand, explain how your course will benefit you at work and improve your skills.
Get in touch with our friendly team here and they'll provide you with the relevant tools to help build your case.
Provided you can show 100% effort has gone into your fundraising* and you’ve made the maximum personal contribution possible, Outward Bound can top up any shortfall in your course fees.
Our funding top up is open to all New Zealanders, regardless of age, circumstance or where you live in Aotearoa.
Don't forget to let us know if you choose to fundraise or would like to set up a payment plan. Get in touch on 0800 688 927 or email info@outwardbound.co.nz
* Use your Fundraising Activity Log to show us your activities. This must include evidence you have contacted your local Lions and Rotary Clubs.
HOW THE FUNDRAISING PROCESS WORKS
1. Choose and book your course. Pay $749 deposit.
2. Ready, steady, fundraise! We may be in touch from time to time to check in on your progress.
3. No later than 8 weeks before your course start date, send us all of the money you've raised so far.
4. If there's a shortfall, complete our Fundraising Activity Log and return it with evidence of your fundraising activities.
5. We'll be in touch to let you know the support we can offer you.
FIND OUT HOW IT'S DONE - ALUMNI STORIES
Having finished three years of study, Rosie wasn't in a position to pay for her Outward Bound course upfront. Instead, she chose to fundraise. Get inspired and watch Rosie's video of how she made her Outward Bound adventure happen.
Hundreds of other alumni have funded their course through fundraising.