The group stayed at Awakino Ski Lodge, 1100 metres above sea level and nestled below the ski field's summit under a blanket of snow. Over the weekend, members rotated through three training stations, each simulating a crucial part of wilderness and rural emergency medicine, from rescuing an avalanche patient to trauma management in a clinic. Training sessions were provided by Sean Davidson, Ellie Davidson, Garry Nixon, and Natalie Reid. Amidst the medical exercises undertaken over the weekend, the students had plenty of time to bond, build connections, and, of course, pick the brains of our wonderful doctors on what rural medicine is like. Students learned extensively about the RNZGP pathway to becoming a rural provider, how to survive medical school and house officer years, the workings of RMIP, and the day-to-day joys but also the struggles of working in remote communities – plenty of funny stories were exchanged. Ultimately, the students appreciated most of all the infectious enthusiasm, honesty, and supportive nature of the doctors to educate and help our Matagouri members become the best they can be.