Last week (6th - 10th May) Jack Leov, Conner Allen and Mrs Vincent from Te Whare Ako went on an incredible adventure to Auckland with the ‘No Laughing Me Publications’ crew. The countless fundraisers, sponsors donations and market days allowed them to participate in many wonderful experiences during their travels.

Day 1 started early and was mainly spent travelling. Only one motorway exit in Auckland traffic was missed which was a bonus! The accommodation at Willowpark Christian Camp was fantastic and we can not recommend the facilities highly enough, especially the hospitality and the food options. Needless to say, no one came home hungry.

Day 2 saw a trip to MOTAT and the Aviation Museum, including a tram ride between the venues. This was followed by a visit to the Stardome Observatory and a quick drive-by to photograph One Tree Hill.

Day 3 began with a ferry ride, an unplanned (but wonderful) trip to the Auckland War Memorial Museum, and an afternoon visit to Kelly Tarlton's Underwater World. The improvements in the facilities were noticeable and this visit was a highlight for many on our trip.

Day 4 was the main attraction which was a wonderful day of walking and exploring all of the enclosures to see all the animals on display at the Auckland Zoo. The Elephant, Tiger, Lions, Giraffes, Cheetah, array of Monkeys and Otters were all a definite crowd pleaser.

Day 5 finished on a high at Butterfly Creek with a wonderful crocodile feeding display, a train ride, an otter experience and lots of photo opportunities with dinosaurs, butterflies and mythical creatures.

Highlights for Conner were the ferry ride from Half-Moon Bay to Downtown Auckland, the tram ride from the Aviation Museum to MOTAT and back again, the helicopter exhibit, getting his photo taken with the Emperor Penguin and seeing the beautifully coloured fish and turtles everyone designed appearing on the large screen in front of him at Kelly Tarlton's. The ginger beers and chocolate ice cream were an added bonus!

Highlights for Jack were getting to spend time with his friends, the volcano experience at the Auckland War Memorial Museum, Butterfly Creek and seeing the animals at the Zoo. He also loved our dance party the night before we left. His 'Greased Lightning' rendition, alongside his friends, had to be seen to be believed! They can certainly bring out the moves when their favourite music comes on.

This trip provided opportunities for growing independence and stepping out of their comfort zone. They shared smiles and laughter, karakia before meals, kai, thank yous on behalf of the group, a few homesick tears, and many a 'tale’ was told.....especially from Mr Henry King.

Highlights for Mrs Vincent included seeing how supportive this group was towards each other. They had impeccable manners and epitomised the values we want all our ākonga (learners) at Geraldine High School and the wider school community to embrace.

The ‘No Laughing Me’ crew pushed themselves to their limits. They tried things even when they were scary or unfamiliar. They gratefully embraced all the opportunities provided and I wanted to take a moment to acknowledge and appreciate each one of them for their incredible efforts and perseverance when overcoming any challenges faced along the way. Their determination and resilience were truly inspiring!

A huge shout-out goes out to Mark and Catherine Allen for the massive amount of organization during this trip including all the behind-the-scenes mahi. The driving in Auckland was on point! The crew from ‘No Laughing Me’ Publications adore these two, especially Catherine who is considered a ‘mum’ away from ‘mum’. Is there a better compliment to get?

Get well soon wishes go out to the selfless Helen Davidson who, due to unforeseen circumstances, couldn’t go on this trip but she didn’t want to see the NLMP crew miss out on their big adventure! This has got to be a great excuse to plan another trip!

Whimsical Wonders Inc (Our Young Enterprise Scheme Business created by students in Te Whare Ako) looks forward to partnering with 'No Laughing Me Publications' to raise further funds towards more wonderful travel experiences and opportunities in the future.

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Important dates for your information.

June