The Year 4 & 5's had a great time at camp earlier in the Term.

Our excitement mounted to a feverish pitch. The day of our Living Springs Camp had arrived at last and the day dawned already warm and summery. 

Bags packed, sunscreen applied and goodbye hugs complete, we set off with our guide, Joseph on a roasting hot walk along the foreshore. We learnt about the geology of the area, the Māori and Pākeha settlers and the contents of our lunchboxes! 

The Farm provided us with a shady spot to eat, before we set off once more on our bushwalk and lessons about the native flora and fauna. Our tongues still tingling with the juice of the Pepper tree, we arrived at last at the Camp. More learning about pest control designed to protect our wonderful birds, animals and trees, and then a hearty (if noisy!) dinner of burgers and chips. 

Still no end to our day in sight, we traipsed up the hill to savour the delights of the infamous monorail. With views of Whakaraupō, and feeling like kings and queens of the world, we hurtled, aided by gravity, a trusty school chair and car seat belt down to our classmates below. Lugging the contraption back up the hill, we eagerly waited for each other to feel the same thrill as they took their long awaited turn. Our near-perfect day was crowned by a final swim in the indoor pool, and then we chattered our way into pyjamas and bed. 

Morning packing, cleaning and breakfast complete, we squeezed in a quick game of dodgeball, before embarking on our team-building Initiatives course. Physical and mental challenges urged us to work together towards a common goal, and feeling proud and triumphant, we then built shelters to protect us from an imminent rainstorm. Luckily the rainstorm was fictional, and we were unhindered in our efforts to light fires with steel and flints and cotton wool. Emerging from the bush like a group of Bear Grylls lookalikes, we ate the best tasting nachos and salad ever. 

With thank yous said, we returned to school, forever bonded by our fabulous experiences. 

Thank you everyone, for your part in making this camp possible.