On Monday the 24th of November, 21 students kicked off their Routeburn camp adventure with Mrs Paterson, Mrs Beaman and Mr McQuaid. Our first stop was Paradise campground in Glenorchy, where we spent a night camping under the stars. 

The next morning we started the Routeburn Track. The walk to the Flats Hut was cruisy and followed the river, but the climb up to the Falls Hut definitely turned up the challenge but reaching the hut made every steep step worth it. Standing 1000 metres above sea level felt like being on top of the world. Even better, a curious kea joined us on the balcony, posing for photos and trying to steal the spotlight (and anything shiny).

Day three threw heavy rain at us, but we still missioned up to Lake Harris, and some of us carried on through fresh snow to the Harris Saddle. For lots of people, tramping in snow for the first time was a massive highlight.

Thursday morning surprised us with more wild weather, rain, thunder, and even lightning. This meant fast-flowing creeks across the track, with water up to our shins. For lots of students, this was both challenging and fun, and definitely motivated us to move quickly toward the Routeburn Shelter where dry clothes and warm showers were waiting.

Once everyone made it back, we drove to the Arrowtown Campground. We set up our tents again, explored the historic town, visited the old Chinese mining cottages, and, of course, stopped in at the Remarkable Sweet Shop.

The Routeburn camp had everything- views, snow, rivers, and memories we won’t forget anytime soon. A big thank you to the staff who spent the week looking after us and making this experience possible.