adventures and nature play

As Kaitiaki (guardians), I believe in the pure magic of tamariki (children) fully expressing themselves in nature. My aim is to foster growth, confidence, and empowerment by providing a nurturing space where children can connect with the Earth, themselves, each other, and the environment.

Inspired by the rhythms of nature, Wild Roots Adventures Sessions offer a unique learning experience for children aged 6-12+. Held entirely outdoors, rain or shine, our sessions blend play, learning, and social development in harmony with the natural world. Whether your child is in school or on an unschooling journey, our co-creational sessions affirm Tuakana-teina (elder buddy & younger buddy) relationships across age groups, genders, and nature.

🌿 Nature-based co-creational learning sessions
🌿 Mentor to Tamariki ratio of 1:7
🌿 Destination Nature Adventure sessions every Thursday 9am - 3pm during school term
🌿 Focus on social, emotional, physical, cognitive, and spiritual development through play in nature

What we offer

meet your guide

Chantal Kerlin, our devoted guide and qualified outdoor instructor,mother of 5 brings a wealth of experience and passion for nature to our program. With a background in outdoor instruction and embodiment mentoring, Chantal creates a safe and enriching environment where young explorers can thrive. 

Chantal's infectious passion for nature and love for our Divine children ensures a safe and enriching experience for young explorers. 

As a certified outdoor instructor, embodiment mentor, and intuitive, she skillfully integrates her love for teaching with a deep understanding of both our natural world and inner realms. This unique approach creates a learning environment that not only sparks curiosity but also fosters growth. 

In addition to Chantal's guidance, our program is enriched by the support of a teen intern, Lulu Wood , adding an extra layer of enthusiasm, energy and fresh perspectives to the adventure.

discover my story
In today's world, children have fewer opportunities for unstructured play in natural environments, leading to increased levels of anxiety and social skill deficits. Our nature-based sessions provide a healing space where children can engage in child-directed play, reducing anxiety and fostering holistic development.

Why nature play matters

How children learn in nature

Benefits of mixed age groups

Adventuurous play & skill building

Children learn from and inspire each other in mixed-age groups, fostering nurturing, leadership, and teaching skills. Younger children benefit from exposure to activities beyond their ability level, while older children gain confidence and empathy through mentoring.
Our play-based, child-led approach encourages hands-on learning, peer interactions, and problem-solving. Through activities, discussions, and positive role modeling, children develop social competence, self-confidence, and awareness of themselves and the environment. Mixed-age groups allow for mentorship, leadership development, and nurturing relationships.
Our program emphasises adventurous play and skill-building workshops, empowering children to develop critical life skills such as risk assessment, creativity, teamwork, and resilience. Activities may include nature art, shelter building, hiking , climbing , native plant identification, making fires , cooking outdoors , swimming , wildlife exploration, and more.

Our circle-led approach creates a nurturing space, fostering empathy and refining active listening skills to ensure every child is truly seen and heard. In this unique setting, we emphasise the art of deep listening, encouraging the sharing of thoughts and ideas, and circles foster a sense of community, where every participant is valued.

Discover the magic of nature at our exclusive Nature Play space, nestled within the serene beauty of Wigley Woods forest in Muriwai Beach. Located in a private residence, our base camp serves as the meeting point for our adventures. From there, as a group, we venture out to a chided location, immersing ourselves in the wonders of nature and embarking on our transformative journey together
Session cost is $70, payment plans welcome discounts for siblings please inqure .

contact us

Location

legal considerations

Our one-day program falls under the New Zealand Education Act, allowing for release from traditional school settings with parental consent. Schools may mark absences as explained, aligning with the vision of the New Zealand Curriculum for lifelong learning and connection to the environment.