Today has seen the wrap-up of three weeks of Stewart Island Camping for our Year 6 classes. This iconic camp has been going on for 46 years and is the highlight event for pupils at Queenstown Primary School. This camp has seen many changes over time as it has evolved and morphed to meet the ever-changing dynamics of flying and boating students to a 1748 square km island, 30km from the bottom of the South Island with an estimated kiwi population of over 20,000 (that’s the bird not the human kiwi which floats around 400).

The students enjoy various activities, including deep-sea fishing on the Mana with Captain Shane. The daily catch is returned to the Kai cart and cooked for their evening meal. It’s cool that it comes from the sea to the fishing rod, to the dinner plate on the same day.

A trip over to Ulva Island to go bird watching is a popular activity for many. If you are lucky enough, you will spot the Stewart Island Robyn or be swooped on by one of the many Kaka. Some enjoy going to the museum and understanding the rich local history. My favourite is the walk to Maori Beach, where a lunch of Tik Tok wraps is cooked, a swim is by the brave and many a sandcastle is made.
Thank you Stewart Island, you have done it again. Bring on 2024.

We look forward to the next camp which is coming up. The Year 4 team are off to Bannockburn for 2 nights before the Year 8 leavers depart on their Rail Trail camp. Education outside the classroom and school camps are still alive and well, adding a positive flavour to our outstanding school.

Matt Leach

Deputy Principal