Akomanga Tuawhitu have enjoyed a diverse and adventurous camp in Taranaki last week.

We stayed at the Fitzroy beachfront campground near New Plymouth and went surfing each day, enjoying big waves and chilly Tasman moana. There were a wide variety of activities planned for the rangatahi to experience, such as, nightwalks, snorkelling, rock climbing, ascending the near vertical path of Paritutu Rock and a visit to the Puke Ariki Museum. We had a go at target shooting, archery, pest trapping and cooked marshmallows on a campfire. Chaddy's Charters took us out to explore the inhabitants and history of the islands just off the coast.

During our stay it snowed on Taranaki and the temperature dropped dramatically. On Thursday morning the sun was shining and we got our first look at Taranaki, resplendent in a cloak of snow. The class went surfing in the morning and then hiked up the maunga and had a snowball fight!

We enjoyed a truly fantastic camp with a big dose of challenge, adventure and fun for everyone. Whilst we were very busy and have had plenty to do, we have also had lots of time to relax, socialise and enjoy the splendour of the taiao of Taranaki.

Ngā mihi nui to everyone in the community who supported our fundraising efforts and made the trip possible, and a big thank you to the parent helpers!