A programme aimed at equipping youth with the tools to care for their mental and physical wellbeing is returning to schools for Term 3.

The Zespri Young and Healthy Virtual Adventure is a collaboration programme between Zespri and the Young Healthy Trust.

Already from the region, nearly 1800 students from classes from Te Akau ki Papamoa, Tauranga Intermediate, Pyes Pa School, Pukehina School and Katikati Primary to name a few, are joining, but more involvement from the region is being encouraged.

Interested schools are urged to register via www.youngandhealthy.org.nz before Frisay, July 26.

There are awesome prizes to be won, like new ASICS sports shoes for a whole class and a fun day for the whole school to enjoy!

With a mission to foster optimal health habits, the program engages participants in fun and interactive activities, supported by a little bit of innovative technology and inspirational role models.

"The Zespri Young and Healthy Virtual Adventure is designed to encourage healthy choices and physical activity that young people can choose themselves," says Young and Healthy Trust founder Kim Harvery.

"Participants earn points for real-world actions such as staying hydrated, eating fruits and vegetables, and prioritising outdoor activities over screen time."

Points are entered into the online interface, with engaging elements such as creating unique avatars and virtually exploring global destinations with ASICS Ambassadors Ameliaranne Ekenasio, Ardie Savea, and Kane Williamson providing guidance and healthy tips.

Teachers love the program for encouraging teamwork amongst all classmates, greater enthusiasm for PE and fitness, and discussions on healthy living among students and their whanau.

Additionally, it can be seamlessly integrated with curriculum subjects such as maths, literacy, and reading.

New this year is the introduction of "check-in challenges," urging participants to assess their current habits and focus on things they can benefit from improving.

"The check-in becomes a daily tool for self-awareness, guiding children to understand and implement the actions they can choose themselves, to help them feel their best each day," adds Kim.

Families are encouraged to join the initiative, fostering a supportive environment for healthy habits to flourish. Evidence suggests that participation influences whanau positively, leading to increased physical activity and other healthy choices at home too.

Amidst rising mental health concerns and decreasing physical activity rates, initiatives like the Zespri Young and Healthy Virtual Adventure are pivotal for our young people to develop strong habits that support their mental and physical wellbeing, ability to learn and develop resilience for everyday life.

Zespri Head of Global Public Affairs Michael Fox says Zespri is proud to partner with Young and Health for a fifth year to help support kiwi kids and their whānau to thrive.

“The Zespri Young and Healthy Virtual Adventure is an amazing programme which contributes to the health and wellbeing of 20,000 young people every year and we’re looking forward to seeing even more tamariki and rangitahi from the Bay of Plenty get involved in 2024.”

Request places for your class by going to www.youngandhealthy.org.nz and for those outside school settings, the "check-in" challenge is open to all via the website's contact form.