The latest Outward Bound programme saw a whole cross-section of New Zealanders take part and this week we're featuring some of them on Here Now.

Luis Perez left Colombia with his family as a 10 year as refugees, and made it to New Zealand as a 19-year old, exactly 10 years ago. A chance to participate in the challenging 21-day Outward Bound Southern Cross programme this year came at a time when he was ready to reflect and consider his next steps in his resettlement journey.

Listen to the full conversation with Luis Perez, and Malisha Munidasa talking to Here Now from Anakiwa, Marlborough Sounds. The podcast also features Krishan Kumar who's the Community Development Partner at Outward Bound.

Each year the programme sees a cross-section of Kiwis participate, with the aim to foster a deeper understanding of both themselves and connection in their community. Through a rigorous, mobile phone-free 21 days spent in the region's bush, ocean and mountains, outdoor activity inspire participants to realize their full potential.

Anakiwa is a tiny seaside town in the Queen Charlotte Sounds and has been the base for Outward Bound for over 60 years now. The Southern Cross course in particular is about fostering diversity and a better understanding of it. The course is hosted in partnership with the Human Rights Commission and paid for by donors.

Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details