​At Wilderness Canoe Trust, the safety and wellbeing of everyone we work with is our highest priority. Our approach to safety is grounded in experience, care, and responsibility so participants can feel confident, supported, and free to enjoy their time on the water.

We understand our duty of care to participants, schools, whānau, and communities. Every journey is planned to suit the group’s abilities, experience, and needs, as well as the conditions on the day.

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Safety for us means:

• thoughtful planning

• clear communication

• experienced kaiako

• creating an environment where everyone feels safe, supported and respected

 

 

 

 

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Working together helps keep everyone safe.

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Participants are expected to:

• follow kaiako instructions

• wear provided safety equipment

• communicate any health, medical, or support needs

• act with care for others and for te taiao​​

We maintain clear, up-to-date policies that guide our mahi and support safe, inclusive experiences. These policies are reviewed regularly and are available on request.

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Our policies include:

• Health & Safety Policy – managing risks and responding to incidents

• Child Protection Policy – safeguarding children and young people

• Code of Conduct – expectations for respectful behaviour from staff, volunteers, and participants​​

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Wilderness Canoe Trust is a proud Safe Space Alliance member.

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This means we are committed to:

• creating inclusive, welcoming environments

• respecting gender diversity and identity

• ensuring everyone feels safe to be themselves

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​Outdoor activities, including canoeing, involve inherent risks. We believe in being open and transparent about these risks so participants and organisations can make informed decisions.

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Before each journey, we:

• clearly communicate potential risks

• explain how these risks are managed

• outline expectations for participation​​​

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Our goal is simple:
to provide outdoor experiences that are safe, supportive, and empowering, where people feel confident to challenge themselves, connect with others, and enjoy the beauty of Aotearoa.

If you have any questions about safety, accessibility, or support needs, please get in touch.

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