“What happens when you take a group of Year 8 students out of the classroom and into the wilds of Fiordland? A week of growth, adventure, and unforgettable experiences.”
Last week, our Year 8 students set off on an unforgettable adventure to the school’s second campus in Te Anau for a week-long camp, running from Monday to Friday. This camp was designed to stretch students beyond their comfort zones, strengthen their independence and resilience, and deepen their connection with the natural environment.
From the outset, the students stood out with their enthusiasm and excellent travel behaviour. The journey to Te Anau was smooth, with students showing patience, respect, and a sense of responsibility – a great sign of the positive week to come.
Cascade Creek: A Night Under the Stars
One of the most memorable experiences of the week was the overnight camp at the Department of Conservation (DOC) Cascade Creek campground. After arriving and setting up their tents, students took ownership of preparing their lunch and dinners – an activity that required planning, teamwork, and a touch of outdoor culinary creativity. For many, this was their first experience cooking on a camp stove or over an open flame, and they rose to the challenge with determination and enthusiasm. Evenings at Cascade Creek were filled with classic camp games and reflection, bringing the group together in laughter and shared experience.
One of the most powerful moments came during the solo time in the bush. Armed with just a tarp, their camp journals and a pencil, students spent up to two hours alone in nature. This experience was designed to promote mindfulness, personal reflection, and a chance to truly listen to the sounds of the forest. Many students shared afterwards that they had never experienced such stillness – or realised how much they had to write about when given the time and space to think.
Outdoor Challenges and Skills for Life
Back at the main camp in Te Anau, the week continued with a rotation of outdoor challenges that required problem-solving, resilience and a willingness to step up and support one another. Survival skills sessions challenged students to consider what essentials are needed to stay safe and warm in the outdoors. These tasks highlighted the importance of preparation, clear communication, and working efficiently under pressure – especially when the weather didn’t always cooperate!
Another highlight was the fishing experience, where students learnt how to set up rods, cast effectively, and patiently wait (and hope!) for a bite. Whether successful or not in catching anything, the sense of calm and quiet reflection by the water was a joy to see.
The camp also included two significant day walks. Two groups tackled the stunning hike up to Lake Marian, where they were rewarded with breathtaking alpine scenery and crystal-clear waters. The climb required good footwear, stamina, and the ability to pace oneself, with plenty of encouragement shared along the way. Another group took a scenic walk along the Te Anau lakefront from the Control Gates to Broad Bay and back, observing birdlife and learning more about the local environment and history. Students needed to show perseverance, situational awareness, and appreciation for the beauty around them.
What the Students Gained
This camp was so much more than just time away from school – it was a week of developing life skills. Students learned how to:
• Be self-reliant and responsible for their gear, food, and well-being.
• Collaborate effectively in unfamiliar and often challenging environments.
• Embrace discomfort and uncertainty with courage and humour.
• Reflect, journal and take time away from screens and distractions.
• Appreciate the environment and how to act as responsible kaitiaki (guardians) of the land.
The staff and parent help were proud of how the Year 8 students conducted themselves throughout the week. Their experiences and the memories they created will no doubt stay with them for years to come – a true milestone on their journey toward young adulthood.
I’d also like to acknowledge the hard work and support of all staff and parent volunteers who helped make the Te Anau camp such a success.
Here’s to many more outdoor adventures ahead!
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