Kauaeranga Valley, Thames

With thanks to Year 6 teacher, Niamh Burns

We knew we got lucky when camp was not cancelled earlier in the year, but just postponed, when Auckland went into lockdown during Term 1. When camp finally got underway at the start of Term 2, we were equally lucky as it was unseasonably warm and sunny for May and our Year 6 cohort were definitely ready for an adventure!

The day of the long-anticipated camp to Kauaeranga Valley, just inland from Thames on the Coromandel Peninsula, arrived and the boys could not believe their luck when they saw where they would be. They had a range of activities ahead of them including kayaking, go-karting, BMX riding, archery and air rifle shooting to name a few.

There was one other challenge that awaited them - the most significant challenge of all - the hike! In groups, they hiked up the Pinnacles carrying all they needed for their overnight stay in the DOC hut. For some boys, the magnitude of this challenge was immense. Towards the end of the trek, the incline was steep. But with support and encouragement from one another, the boys completed the challenge. A sense of achievement ensued!

The remainder of the trip was spent back at the camp enjoying the last few days of activities, shared dorms and the legendary slip & slide, a giant mud slide which the boys, staff and parents enjoyed.

Here is what the boys recall.

The walk was super tiring but worth it. It was cool at the top because the view was amazing.
Ben Cleaver

I loved whizzing down the flying fox. It was challenging and enjoyable when I raced people in the kayaks.
Remo Martinez Azaro

I tried new things such as go-karting and air rifle shooting.
Caleb Goad

Waiting in line and watching others fly down the waterslide was amazing. Sometimes Mr Wright sprayed us with the hose when we were not expecting it. We were sad to leave the slide but grateful to get into the warm showers.
Mackenzie Hay

We learnt new games like Hockey Nine Square and Raptor Ball. My favourite game was Raptor Ball. Ben Daly

There were plenty of opportunities to make friends, but especially in our activity groups and cabin groups. Camp provided us with many chances to collaborate and understand each other. This also applied for cabin groups as we had to rely on each other to keep our area clean and tidy and to stay quiet at night. The state of my cabin throughout the week is something I can be proud of.
Eason Liu

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