The Taranaki Outdoor Pursuits and Education Centre (TOPEC) has received a substantial contribution from the Barnett Family, helping to bring the new TOPEC Lodge closer to reality. This gift reflects the strong local support for a project that will expand outdoor education opportunities for generations of Taranaki learners.

TOPEC hosts on average 80-100 students each day from 51 schools, offering NCEA and tertiary-level outdoor and environmental courses. It also runs week-long camps and vital programmes such as Riversafe and Bushsafe.  “We’re proud of the legacy TOPEC has built, serving schools from all around the maunga for more than three decades,” says Christine (Grover) Worsfold, TOPEC Director. “Demand has never been higher, and we need to grow to keep pace. A new lodge will help us deliver more programmes to more people and continue the hands-on learning experiences that change lives.”

TOPEC provides outdoor education programmes to more than 5000 students and has bookings through until 2027.

The planned lodge will provide flexible all-weather learning spaces, multiple educational areas, and opportunities for community, corporate, and organisational use. Designed to be environmentally sustainable, it will serve the region for decades to come. Bryce Barnett, on behalf of the Barnett Family shared that, “TOPEC has always been about giving people a sense of ‘we can’ that stays with you long after you’ve left. It’s a place for everyone, where confidence grows, friendships form, and memories are made for life. The Barnett Family are proud to be contributing and supporting this project.”

Ex All Black, Conrad Smith, TOPEC Project Ambassador added “TOPEC played a pivotal role in my education and in shaping how I see the world. Projects like this lodge-build ensure future generations can have the same formative experiences that inspire confidence, teamwork, and a love for our environment.”

Construction of the $1.7 million lodge is planned for 2026. To date, just over $1.2 million has been secured through generous grants, including support from Toi Foundation, NZCT, and most recently the Barnett Family. To close the remaining funding gap, TOPEC, supported by Taranaki Foundation and NP Partners, has a community campaign underway. All contributions are welcomed, and there are also a range of exclusive naming rights available to support the project.

Josh Hickord, Chief Executive of Taranaki Foundation shares “TOPEC has long been a cornerstone of outdoor learning in Taranaki, a real Taranaki treasure. With the new lodge, more schools and community groups will be able to experience the life-changing programmes TOPEC offers. We are proud to support this special project and help create the next 35 years of TOPEC memories for future generations”.

The Barnett Family’s contribution, exceeding $100,000, also includes ongoing annual operational support for TOPEC programmes, reflecting their long-term commitment to the centre. This gift is a major step in making the TOPEC Lodge a reality, giving Taranaki people of all ages the opportunity to benefit from hands-on outdoor education.

Link to Taranaki Daily News Article here.

Click here to learn more about the project and how to contribute.