This could be an apt way to describe a group called Hoea Te Waka, started by Suzi Wereta and Lisa Te Raki.
They have been running monthly wananga (learning gatherings) where young people learn waka ama (outrigger canoe) at Karitane.
Ms Wereta said learning how to navigate a canoe could be seen as a metaphor for navigating life.
About 25 young people had taken part in the monthly learning gatherings.
As well as learning waka ama, they also had an opportunity to learn teamwork, communication skills and developing friendships, Ms Wereta said.
Amber Pringle said it had been really fun getting to learn how to paddle a canoe.
Keeping in time was one of the main elements needed to work as a good team on the water, she said.
Some of the participants had put their skills to the test by participating in the Ki Uta Ki Tai Waka Ama Challenge at Lake Te Anau recently.
Ms Wereta said it was "awesome and amazing".
"The weather was so hot and the water was pretty ideal for us.
"We paddled well and each of the young ones really stepped up in their roles."
Funding for the initiative is through Maori health and wellbeing organisation Te Rau Ora, which operates a Maori suicide prevention fund.
"With the funding we have been able to get people there, feed them, take them on this amazing trip," Ms Wereta said.
The initiative is also supported by Tokomairiro Waiora Inc, Hokonui Runanga and Kati Huirapa Runaka ki Puketeraki.
