Peer Support Camp 2025 = Me Whakamātau

The annual Peer Support Camp was an unforgettable experience for our Year 9's and allowed some Year 13s to develop their leadership skills. The annual camp was held last week at El Rancho in Waikanae and allowed the new members of our whanau to understand Newlands College's values and build connections with fellow classmates, Year 13's and Kaiako. Some key highlights were the Year 9 Form Class Challenge, won by 9RW, and the Haka Competition, won by Totara. Unfortunately, the weather did impact some activities, including the Year 9 relay. However, hopefully, we can do that at a later date. 

Many students left the camp with a renewed sense of confidence and motivation. Senior leaders expressed how rewarding it was to mentor younger students, while Year 9 participants shared their excitement about having older students they can turn to for guidance. The camp reinforced the importance of whanaungatanga and manakitanga, qualities that will benefit students both in and out of the classroom.