The latest intake in QRC's Adventure Tourism Management (ATM) course had only two weeks to settle in before their endurance, confidence, leadership, outdoor and team skills were tested to the limit.
College chief executive Charlie Phillips and ATM programme manager John Cossens were among the well-wishers who welcomed the 17 students as they kayaked from Wilsons Bay to Queenstown Bay last night.
Hot showers and celebrations back at college were next on their agenda, before a full debriefing in class on Monday.
ATM student Maddie Meagher (18), of Sydney, said she was cold but feeling good after her experience.
The highlight was reaching the peak of Mt Gilbert and feeling the sense of achievement, she said.
"I know my strengths and weaknesses now - what I can and can't do and I've gotten to know everyone a lot better, in different circumstances."
The QRC Diploma of Adventure Tourism Management is a two-year course, the only one of its kind in New Zealand.
It develops future adventure tourism managers by blending business management and leadership skills with practical work experience and adventure education.
Mr Phillips said QRC plans to open the Explorer programme as a commercial venture for the public in September.
