Boys’ School Year 8 Camps offer Challenge, Adventure, and Growth Across Three Locations

In Term 1, our Year 8 boys stepped away from the classroom and into the outdoors, taking part in one of the most memorable experiences of their final year at the Boys’ School – camp. This year, the Year 8 cohort was split into three groups, each attending a different camp location across the North Island. Whether in Tongariro National Park or on the Coromandel Peninsula, each camp offered its own unique challenges, designed to challenge, build friendships, and offer new experiences.

One group travelled to the Hillary Outdoor Education Centre at Tongariro YDC, where they tackled a full weeks’ worth of adventure-based activities. High ropes, caving, orienteering, and abseiling tested their physical and mental endurance, while team-building challenges such as the ‘Big Skip’ and Wetsuit Olympics encouraged collaboration and leadership. A highlight was the overnight expedition, with boys camping under the stars and returning home with a well-earned sense of achievement.

Another group journeyed to the newly established Hillary Outdoors Centre at Port Charles on the Coromandel Peninsula. Set against a coastal backdrop, the boys embraced a range of activities from sea kayaking and coasteering to giant SUP battles and bush shelter building. The experience culminated in an overnight expedition where the boys camped in hammocks beneath the stars. The camp provided an opportunity to strengthen friendships and develop essential outdoor skills in a spectacular setting.

The third group spent the week at Tongariro’s Taurewa site, based at Taurewa Lodge and the Outdoor Leadership School. Despite a few days of wet weather, the boys’ enthusiasm never faltered as they tackled river walking, rock climbing, canoeing, and high ropes. Highlights included an overnight expedition and encounters with giant wetas during caving. Throughout the week, the boys worked together to overcome obstacles and build confidence.

Each camp experience was different, but the outcomes were aligned – stronger friendships, new skills, and a deeper understanding of what it means to lead, support, and persevere.