ABS Course
Adventure Bible School
Introduction
Do you dream of adventure? Of experiencing the raw beauty God’s creation while challenging yourself with fun activities alongside new friends. Then ABS is just the programme for you!
Our Adventure Bible School (ABS) is a 5-week outdoor-based Bible School.
This unique experience is aimed at developing the whole person - spirit, soul and body, particularly in the area of Christian living.
From 2026, we now offer two shorter options: a 10-day mini ABS and a 5-day mini ABS. These condensed versions provide a taste of the ABS experience, making it more accessible for those with limited time, while still focusing on spiritual growth, leadership development, and outdoor adventure.
The Course
Course Title
"Christian Development and Leadership using Adventure Based Learning"
The sea, sky, mountains, bush and caves are the setting for our classroom. The ABS programme has been developed over many years to combine Bible teaching with physical, outdoor activities. This course is designed to stretch students as they explore their relationships with God, others and themselves.
The Programme
ABS is held 3 times a year beginning in February, May and October. In applying for ABS there are a few options you can select from:
Just the ABS course at one of the 3 times held in a year (5 weeks)
ABS and completion of the term in the Monavale Bible School (8 to 10 weeks)
ABS and completion of the whole Monavale Bible School semester (18 weeks)
New from 2026 - Mini-ABS!
Mini ABS is held in July (10 days) and October (5 days). It is limited to people who have not done or about to do the 5-week ABS. In applying for the mini ABS you can also apply for the Monavale Bible School.
NOTES:
All options are subject to course availability and acceptance.
Applicants must be 18 years old and over to attend ABS.
We are unable to cater for special diets.
Due to New Zealand health and safety requirements & the type of programme, individuals with some medical conditions are unfortunatlety not able to undertake ABS e.g. diabetes, epilepsy.
Places are limited to:
18 on the 5 week course
14 on the 10 day course
9 on the 5 day course
Due to popularity these are filled very quickly (often 6 to 9 months in advance).
We operate a waitlist system in the event that someone unfortunately must drop out before the course commences. However, waitlists can be long and we encourage students to apply early to avoid disappointment.
The Location
Check out where this course is run and more information about it.
Delivery
Be prepared to be stretched both spiritually and physically!
The course includes a balance of:
Practical Bible Study
Lectures
Mentoring
Discussion
Workshops
Adventure Activities
Practical Activities
Activities that you may participate in while on ABS:
Abseiling (rappelling)
Biking
Camping
Caving
Kayaking
Rock Climbing
Running
Tramping (hiking)
NOTE: These activities can be weather dependant, additionally we do not offer every activity on every course.
Outcomes
A Bible School Certificate is awarded to students fulfilling course requirements. A transcript is also issued upon the completion of the course.
Note
A reasonable level of fitness is expected in order to get the most out of the course, though no prior experience is necessary. The benchmark is that you can run 5 km (3.1 miles) without stopping. This will be tested on the first week of the ABS programme.
Please be honest to disclose any relevant information or pre-existing injuries prior to application (or prior to the course commencement if injured after application), as you may be excluded from the course if such injuries prevent you from participating.
If at any stage your health becomes a concern then we reserve the right to get treatment, advice or remove you from the course to protect you.
Risk Disclosure
You will be required to and agree to the following risk disclosure
I wish to undertake the activities offered by Capernwray NZ (CNZ).
I understand that there is the risk of serious harm or death involved while undertaking these activities.
I understand there are consequences if I ignore CNZs safety management procedures and directions.
I agree that I will undertake CNZs activities in accordance with information given at safety briefings.
I acknowledge that CNZ will take all reasonable and practicable steps to keep me safe while I am involved in these activities.
I have honestly & accurately disclosed any medical and health issues.
In the event of an incident or illness I authorise the obtaining of such medical assistance for myself as may be thought necessary by Capernwray staff.
Safety Certified
Capernwray New Zealand has a Safety Management System that has been audited and certified by Qualworx againt the Safety Audit Standard for Adventure Activities
DATES & FEES
View the latest dates & fees
Other Capernwray New Zealand Courses
Alongside our familiar Monavale Bible School course, we also offer an Adventure Bible School and Touring Bible School course. The MBS course can also be combined with either of these programmes in various combinations to suit your schedule.
