Kawhatau Outddors ( based about 20 minutes inland from Mangaweka ) was known for ‘doing something different every day’. The camp comprised of 17 eager students, two seniors and three helpful staff.

Day one saw us rafting, tenting and cooking for ourselves, as well as rock sculpting on the riverbank. Day two was a tramp followed by a quiz night. Day three was the team-based activities – “Masterchef”, rock painting and puzzles. Winning these took on extra importance as the results would see who got the easy jobs on Friday and who would clean the dreaded bombshell bathrooms. Day four was a farm visit and experience. It was great to get quite ‘hands on’. We learnt how to dig in a fence post, as well as draft and drench sheep. After lunch we went to the asparagus farm where many boys found the entire process from seed to table quite interesting. The final day saw us pack up, clean up then head into Feilding on the way home for a round of mini golf and pizzas for lunch.

Camp week was a great experience for everyone and most of the boys had a blast. Many thanks to Mr Benn and Mr Roydhouse for giving up their time as well as a huge vote of thanks to Mr Higgie for organising the week. Thanks also to the two Year 12 boys, Angus and Charlie. Their quiet assurance and assistance helped many of the lads. Kawhatau Outdoors is a camp with many different activities that I know the boys enjoyed. Long may it continue.

Bailey Hakopa.