Wāhine finding their way.

This challenging hike is part of Pathway's enhanced support program, an initiative designed to help women confront their anxieties through experiences that push boundaries while building connection and confidence.

"A lot of what's happening at the moment for this particular group of women is they're isolating themselves, and it's very much fear-driven," Milly explains. "They're having big feelings like anxiety and'no, I couldn't possibly do that.' So it's about walking alongside them, experiencing new things, and letting them have those feelings – but showing them it's okay and actually normal."

The programme has already introduced our wāhine to a diverse range of experiences, from unleashing emotions at Rage Cage Smash Rooms to finding creativity through photography at Mona Vale. They've enjoyed peaceful picnics at the Botanical Gardens and Riccarton Bush, built strength through Boxfit sessions, and enjoyed community connection at Art-East cinema.

Many of these women have lived in Christchurch their whole lives but haven't had the opportunity to truly experience what the city offers. Years of addiction,controlling relationships, or economic hardship have limited their worlds. Through this programme, their worlds are expanding.

Take that first attempt at the Cave Loop Track – while the group didn't complete the full 2.5km journey that day, something more important happened. They discovered their own determination.They called me back and said they'd like to give it another go," Milly shares with pride.

"They're definitely learning to challenge themselves.Just because it feels uncomfortable doesn't mean we shouldn't do it. I think that's the premise of the new group – to try new things and push ourselves, even if it feels uncomfortable."

Our team regularly updates the activity schedule to maintain engagement and create new opportunities for growth. If you have ideas or opportunities that could benefit our wāhine, we'd love to hear from you. Together, we can help these women discover just how capable they truly are.