This year, Year 10 students from OGHS were given the opportunity to attend an outdoor enriched camp. There were many choices to choose from, each with their own activities and focusses for personal growth in the outdoors. Our choice was Albert Town, the camp with the largest variety of activities. These included: mountain biking, paddleboarding, tramping, rock climbing, and swimming in the Mata-Au (Clutha) river.

On Monday, we trickled into the school grounds, huge bags in hand and bikes ready to be loaded onto the trailer. The weather only got better as we drove closest towards Central Otago. Music was blasting in Mr McGowan’s ears for the four to five hour drive. When we arrived at the campsite, we had a brief scan of the area as we waited for the arrival of the other van. The Wanaka sun was scorching down on us with a temperature of 29 degrees. As soon as the other van arrived, we got to work unloading the vans and setting up tents. Tent groups chose their patches of grass to set up camp on for the week, and tents were put up as quickly as possible. At this point the heat was unbearable and people were sweating profusely by just sitting in their tents. Once all the tents were assembled, there was no time to waste before getting into the refreshing water of Mata-Au. We hurriedly changed into our togs and headed down to the water, a one-minute walk from the camp. Swimming each day in the river before dinner became a routine for all of us, including Miss Young and Ms Graamans. The teachers thought we wouldn’t last ten minutes in the freezing water, but we exceeded their expectations tremendously.

Tuesday was probably the hardest day for most students on the camp as we embarked on our biking challenge along the Outlet and Hawea River tracks. It took four hours to reach our lunch spot at the Hawea Whitewater Park! The ride back was much more pleasant, as the more capable riders took charge and sped back to camp in anticipation of getting into the water.

Wednesday was a really fun day for most students. The morning activity of stand-up paddle-boarding was a major highlight for the majority of us. Wanaka produced another stunning day, with temperatures in the mid-twenties. The water seemed to be warmer when paddle-boarding, making it easy to jump off your board and into the lake. After paddle-boarding, the group headed to Clip ‘n Climb, where we had climbing competitions and the first of our ‘Van Challenges’. The competition was rather intense, with Van Two coming on top with the most points.

Nearing the end of the week, the sun had zapped our energy levels, and it was decided a slightly shorter and more covered tramp would be better. We hiked the Mt Iron loop on Thursday, and the teachers incorporated several ‘Van Challenges’ such as Spot the Difference, Who’s missing?, and ‘Design a Christmas tree’. These challenges added to the fun during our hike, and it was an opportunity for van one to catch up on points!

We were fortunate to have gorgeous weather for most of the week. A bit of rain on Wednesday and Thursday nights sent us to our tents early but did not dampen our spirits. Overall, Albert Town camp is definitely one to remember. It was both challenging and exciting. New friendships were formed, and many happy memories will be kept for the students who attended this camp.

We would like to thank the teachers who put so much effort and time into providing us with this wonderful opportunity - Miss Young, Mr McGowan, and Ms Graamans.