The Combined Adolescent Challenge Training Unit (CACTUS) programme sits at the heart of the Wairoa Young Achievers Trusts work in Wairoa.
For nearly two decades, the CACTUS programme has been a cornerstone of the Wairoa Young Achievers Trust (WYAT) in Wairoa, offering transformative leadership and life skills training to young people aged 12 to 18. Run through Wairoa College, this elite 8-week programme sees multiple groups graduate each year.
CACTUS provides targeted life skills training, career education, and one-on-one mentoring across three levels – Basic, Extreme, and Advanced. Each course starts with an hour-long early morning physical training session, held three times a week, based on exercises originally developed for New Zealand armed forces. These sessions are typically led by current or former police officers, fire service members, or army personnel, who are deeply invested in helping trainees overcome their personal challenges. Following the physical training, participants enjoy hot showers, a hearty breakfast, and participate in individual and group coaching and goal-setting, all before heading off to school.
CACTUS has earned a strong reputation for equipping youth with critical skills like self-management, time management, and self-discipline, empowering them to take on productive and fulfilling roles in society. The courses are both physically and mentally demanding, requiring trainees to meet high standards of behaviour and achievement. Tremendous dedication, passion, and resilience are necessary to succeed.
A committed team of volunteers plays a crucial role in supporting the programme by assisting with fitness sessions, preparing breakfasts, organising guest speakers, coordinating travel, maintaining uniforms, and setting up equipment.
The final day of the programme, known as “The Longest Day,” is a true test of personal strength and teamwork, where participants tackle a series of tough individual and group challenges. The programme concludes with a special graduation ceremony attended by trainees, their families, the wider CACTUS support network, and invited guests – a fitting celebration of the hard work, growth, and achievements of all involved.