Jamboree Youth Advisory Team
The planning team for the 24th Aotearoa Scout Jamboree is collaborating with a dedicated group of rangatahi (young people) to create an unforgettable experience for all Scouts attending. This Jamboree Youth Advisory Team, made up of 12 Scouts and led by two Venturers, is tasked with providing practical feedback, sharing ideas, and ensuring that youth voices are heard in every aspect of the NZ24 Scout Jamboree. Helena Kennard, the Jamboree Adventure Director, highlights their crucial role, saying, "From Jamboree activities to camp life, the young people's input will help shape an event that reflects the spirit of Scouting and brings us together." Meet the Youth Advisory Team: Ben Hastie, Byron Tjaberings, Bree Griffin, Ellie Lloyd, Max Streifler, Rory Allen, Annabelle McMaster, Hope Charters, Ella Marie Barnes, Fletcher Gillies, Oliver Ren, and Maxim Teterin. Team leaders are Sabina Altorf and Jessica Croad, with Jack Haldane as the team advisor.
Jamboree Participation
Age Exception
Participants in the Jamboree must be Scouts aged between 11 years and 14 years and 6 months at the start of the event, specifically those born between June 28, 2012, and December 28, 2015. This age requirement ensures that all participants are developmentally ready to engage in the activities and experiences offered during the Jamboree. Scouts Aotearoa New Zealand emphasises the importance of age-appropriate participation, given the varying abilities and maturity levels of younger Scouts. Scouts under the age of 11 may face additional challenges and risks, including social dynamics and the physical demands of the activities. Consequently, Scouts must be at least 11 years old during the Jamboree year, typically corresponding to school years 7 through 10, to ensure they have the necessary skills and resilience to thrive in the environment. Older Scouts, those over 14 years and 6 months, may also encounter difficulties if they are participating in activities primarily designed for younger Scouts in their troop. The programme is curated to cater to the interests and abilities of younger participants, which may not align with the expectations or capabilities of older Scouts. There is some flexibility regarding participation. While the Jamboree Director has the authority to approve requests for age exceptions, the final decision rests with the Scout Leader or Jamboree Troop Leader. This decision takes into consideration various factors such as the Scout’s maturity, readiness for the experiences offered, and alignment with the Troop's values and objectives for participation, having been actively engaged in the Scout section for at least 3 months before the Jamboree and being familiar with essential camping skills, teamwork, and Scouting principles, ensuring they are well-prepared for the event. If you have a youth who is between 10 years and 6 months and 11 years old, or between 14 years and 6 months and 15 years old, please consult your Scout Group Scout Leader to start the application process for a Scout Age Exception.
Message from the
Jamboree Director
An exciting new chapter in the history of Scouting Aotearoa New Zealand is about to begin! We're coming together from Aotearoa New Zealand, Australia, the Pacific Islands, and beyond for a unique experience— the Scout Jamboree. This isn't just an event; it’s a life-changing adventure. The Jamboree theme of "TOGETHER" - "KOTAHITANGA" embodies camaraderie, teamwork, and exploration, encouraging everyone to embark on thrilling adventures while making new friends. At the heart of this theme is the reef knot, symbolising the enduring friendships that are fundamental to Scouting worldwide. With the Scout Jamboree on the horizon, I invite all Scouts, Leaders, and volunteers to start planning for this amazing experience. Stay tuned for announcements on our website and on social media pages, as we journey together towards the Jamboree. On behalf of Scouts Aotearoa, I look forward to welcoming you to the Scout Jamboree for an unforgettable event. Laurence Fauatea Jamboree Director
Scout eligibility criteria for NZ24 Scout Jamboree
The criteria for attending the 24th New Zealand Scout Jamboree ensure that Scouts are well-prepared for their experience, both emotionally and mentally, as well as physically and within their community. Activities at the Jamboree will be based on teamwork (patrol) and may sometimes be led by a Team Leader. Scouts should be able to work effectively within their Team (patrol) without direct supervision from their Kaiārahi. These activities are tailored for youth aged between 11 and 14 years and 6 months. For a New Zealand Scout to attend the 24th New Zealand Scout Jamboree, the following criteria are applied: 1. Be fully invested in the Scout Section by 28 September 2026. 2. Pay the appropriate Jamboree fee by the due dates. 3. Complete the Bronze Scout Award. 4. Ideally, have achieved up to the following Adventure Levels: a) Level 4 Camping b) Level 4 Water Safety c) Level 4 Emergency 5. Camp for at least five nights in the Scout Section. 6. Work effectively in a team without Kaiārahi supervision. 7. Obtain the approval of their parents or guardians, Kaiārahi, Group Leader, Jamboree Troop Leader, and themselves. The required age limit for participants in the Jamboree is between 10 years and 6 months to 11 years and 14 years and 6 months to 15 years at the start of the Jamboree (born between 28 June 2011 and 28 December 2014). The Jamboree is open to all Scouts aged 11 to 14 years and 6 months. For an International Scout to attend the 24th New Zealand Scout Jamboree, the following criteria apply: 1. Be aged between 11 and 15 years on 28 December 2026. 2. Pay the appropriate Jamboree fee by the due date. 3. Obtain approval to attend from their National Scout Organisation (NSO).
Mystery Creek:
The Site and Folklore
Mystery Creek is recognised as one of New Zealand's leading event centres, located near Hamilton in the scenic Waikato region, just south of Auckland. The venue spans 114 hectares and features a combination of modern buildings and expansive open spaces, making it an ideal setting for various types of events. The name "Mystery Creek" is rooted in local history and folklore. One notable legend recounts a chilling murder that occurred in the 19th century, involving both the murderer and the investigating officer, who vanished under mysterious circumstances. Another story tells of a saddled horse named "Mystery," discovered near the creek, with its rider lost to history. Additionally, there is a tale of a courageous captain who explored the region during the Waikato Wars, accompanied by his horse, also named Mystery. As one of the largest and most adaptable event centres in New Zealand, Mystery Creek hosts a wide range of activities, including expos, field days, concerts, and conferences. It is equipped to facilitate both large outdoor events and smaller indoor gatherings. Mystery Creek has also been a significant venue for several New Zealand Scout Jamborees, fostering lasting experiences for numerous participants amid its beautiful landscapes and vibrant atmosphere.
