Source: Eastern Institute of Technology – Tairāwhiti
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Davey Forbes is passionate to share his knowledge and skills with his students.
After 28 years in the Defence Force, Davey Forbes has decided that it’s time for a change. He recently accepted a job offer to teach on EIT’s new NZ Certificate in Outdoor and Adventure Education (level 4). Starting in February 2021, the one year qualification is aimed at people who want to enter the outdoor adventure, recreation and tourism industries.
“We have learned that New Zealand outdoor industry is crying out for skilled and knowledgeable outdoor guides. Looking at the local market, it’s no secret that the East Coast is an untapped gem for adventure and outdoor tourism. It’s only a matter of time before the sector will be booming and highly skilled operators and outdoor guides will be in hot demand,” says Davey.
Davey joined the army from Hastings in 1992. In 2002 he was deployed to East Timor and after returning to New Zealand he took up the role of a New Zealand Army Physical Training Instructor. He has been the local defence recruiter for the East Coast since 2018. Davey also holds a degree in Health Science and has been heavily involved as strength and conditioning coach in professional and semi-professional sports nationally and internationally, for instance preparing the Samoan Rugby Team for the 2011 World Cup.
“I’m lucky that my passion has become my hobby. I just love seeing people excel and guiding them to reach their full potential. In my work with athletes I strongly focus on stress resilience, leadership abilities and mental skills, skills that everybody needs to succeed,” says Davey.
Davey is certain that the students will have a lot of fun and get a lot out of the programme. “We will engage in all sorts of outdoor activities such as sea kayaking, rock climbing, rafting and mountain biking. Following the principles of kaitiakitanga, these activities will be the vehicle to learn about leadership, risk management, guiding groups, search & rescue skills, planning and logistics, weather and navigation. We will also touch on environmental and sustainability issues.”
“The programme is perfect for people who want to become a leader in the outdoor adventure industry, who are passionate about the outdoors, enjoy leaving their comfort zone and tackle the challenges that nature throws at them.”
