A Great Start to the Year at Te Kūwaha Mātauraka

It’s been a huge term so far at Te Kūwaha Mātauraka – John McGlashan College second campus, and I’m not quite sure where to begin!

The lodge has been absolutely humming with activity. Alongside our much anticipated Year 13 and Year 9 camps, we’ve had the pleasure of hosting Drummond Primary School, Waihi School, and St Hilda's Collegiate School. It has been fantastic to see so many students making the most of this incredible environment and embracing everything Fiordland has to offer.

Bookings have increased significantly this year, and we are nearly fully booked right through until mid July. The growth in demand reflects the unique experiences students are able to have here. Whether that’s pushing themselves by navigating an orienteering course, paddling on the lake, or simply building resilience and friendships in the outdoors.

So, what’s new at the lodge?

Pest control remains a strong focus, and it’s pleasing to report that it is well under control. Recently, we’ve managed to trap several stoats and some impressively sized rats, a reminder of the ongoing work required to protect this special environment.

One of the most exciting additions is our brand-new 50-metre waterslide, double the length of the previous one! It has already proven to be a massive hit with students and adds another high energy activity to our programme.

Thanks to the generous support of the PFA, we have also been able to purchase new rock climbing harnesses. This investment provides a significant boost to our climbing and abseiling programme, ensuring we can continue to offer safe, high quality experiences that challenge and inspire our students.

It’s been a busy, productive, and exciting term so far. We are incredibly fortunate to have such a special place to learn, grow, and explore and we look forward to welcoming many more groups through the lodge in the months ahead.