The Motueka Cadet Unit opened its doors to the wider community on Friday evening, bringing young people together for a night of games, teamwork and outdoor safety.
Cadets welcomed members of the Rangatahi Explorers Tapawera Youth Group, the Fragile Boxing crew and the Riwaka Scouts, running a series of Youth Week challenges focused on practical outdoor skills.
Corporal Alfie Wickenden says that a highlight was the involvement from across the community. He says, the cadets went into the evening with plenty of ideas and presented themselves well.
Cadet Malachi Davies says that it was great to see such a wide range of ages and stages taking part, praising “everyone’s attitude towards just joining in and enjoying it”.
“If they have fun with it, they’re going to want to join us, and then they’re going to learn,” adds Lance-Corporal Alex Oke.
The cadet movement focuses on building confidence, leadership and practical life skills for young people through challenge and shared experiences.
