Year 9 Camp Builds Resilience and Connection at Tōtara Springs

In February, our Year 9 students travelled to Tōtara Springs in Matamata for a week centred on challenge and shared experience. Set in a picturesque environment, the camp invited students to step beyond their comfort zones while strengthening relationships early in the year.

Activities such as paintball, waterslides, and tower abseiling tested both resilience and teamwork. A defining experience for many was the overnight tent-building challenge, where students worked with limited materials to construct their own shelter. As student James Pienaar reflected, “It was challenging but rewarding… it helped us bond more as a tutor group.”

Paintball emerged as a clear highlight, described as “fun and enjoyable for everyone,” despite the occasional sting. These moments of intensity were balanced by time to unwind, with the hot pools providing a welcome reprieve.

Camp life also shaped a growing sense of independence. Shared routines, time in dorms and tents, and the rhythm of the programme encouraged students to engage fully with the experience.

The week at Tōtara Springs strengthened connections within tutor groups and provided an early measure of the character and cohesion developing across the year level.