The Year 9 and 10s spent the week in the deep south and had a memorable camp!

The Year 9 and 10 students have just returned from an unforgettable five-day trip to Rakiura (Stewart Island), where they experienced the very best of the deep south under perfect weather conditions.

Eager to set off, the students enjoyed a smooth crossing before spending their first day getting their bearings and exploring the island’s stunning beaches. Of course it was April Fools Day, and Mrs Cairns had a trick up her sleeves. She definitely had some students feeling excited and nervous with a 'shark cage diving' experience. With an early start the next morning, backpacks were on and everyone headed for a challenging yet rewarding 7km trek to Ackers Point. While their calves may have complained, the breathtaking view, complete with the sight of kawhai running in the waters below made every step worthwhile. After a well-earned pit stop it was a visit to the local museum, where everyone delved into Stewart Island’s history and took on quiz challenges to test their fact hunting skills. Later, the much-anticipated fishing began and those keen to take a dip, the bay provided the perfect opportunity for a very refreshing swim.

Day two started with a small stroll uphill (with tighter calves than the day before) to the dock at Golden Bay Wharf, where we were water-taxied over to Ulva Island. Rich in birdlife, native plants, and knowledge, the guides from 'Beaks and Feathers' gave us an informative guided tour. From wekas to robins (the cutest and friendliest bird of the forest), everyone took away knowledge from the island's beauty.

After refuelling, we set off for another bay sheltered from the wind, where students faced off in the ultimate sand sculpture challenge. This was followed by 'seaweed'on the beach. The day wrapped up with more fishing off the wharf and riding the waves through body surfing.

The evening brought a session with local celebrities from 'Paws for Conservation.' Sandy and her trained dogs, Gadget and Mawson, demonstrated their impressive rodent detection skills and shared their love and dedication to protecting New Zealand's ecosystems. It was exciting to watch the dogs detect a mouse that was planted in the hall!

Day three began with a light drizzle and a bit of apprehension as the students prepared for the much-anticipated fishing charter. Ant and his boat, Tequila, were the experts leading the way. The boys headed out in the morning and were stoked to haul in an impressive 25 sizable blue cod—despite a 50% seasickness rate. In the afternoon, the girls had their turn, catching 20 large blue cod along with seven sharks, also matching the 50% seasick statistic.

There was definitely a buzz in the air as the day’s bounty was cooked fresh for dinner, with enough to share and take home. The excitement didn’t end there—an evening kiwi spotting adventure behind the accommodation topped off an already thrilling day.

The final morning saw an early start for a quick pack-up to catch the 8 a.m. ferry back to the mainland. After a pit stop on the way home, there were plenty of happy (and tired) campers excited to see familiar faces and return to the comfort of their own beds.

As always, a camp like this wouldn't be possible without meticulous planning and support. A massive thank you to Mrs Cairns for your effort, energy, and leadership. To our wonderful staff members Gina and Robyn, and to our parent helpers Ibby and Louise — your support made this experience unforgettable. We are so grateful to have such passionate people helping create lasting memories for our students.

Check out everyones highlights below:

Riley - E-biking around.

Lucy - Catching a fish off the wharf.

Milly - The fishing and catching blue cod.

Max - Catching my first fish and getting to drive the boat.

Malakai - catching the blue cod.

Harrison - the fishing charter.

Archie - Fishing.

Blair - Probably fishing.

Cooper - Fishing off the wharf.

Jacquelyn - To be honest seeing the kiwi.

Cypress - everything, even the walks (with the exception of waking up).

Elaine - Catching 4 fish and 1 shark.

Sueloa - I liked all the plants.

Alice - fishing on the boat.

Ibby - Just being on camp.

Gina - Getting to hang out with the 9 and 10s.

Louise - Charter fishing for blue cod.

Sarah - Seeing a kiwi, sunrises, reflections at night.

Robyn- Seeing the wildlife, kiwi, deer, penguins and robins.