Year 8 Camps 2024

Something new, challenging and exciting for our Year 8's this year!

Dear Tahuna Year 8 Parents and Caregivers,

Exciting news awaits as we unveil this year's much-anticipated camp venue for our Year 8 students! We're thrilled to announce that we'll be venturing to the picturesque Camp Columba in Southland, just outside of Gore. This change brings with it a multitude of new and exhilarating activities, promising an unforgettable experience for our students.

At Camp Columba, your child will have the opportunity to partake in a wide array of activities, carefully curated to foster teamwork, courage, and resilience. Here's a sneak peek into what awaits them:

1. High Ropes: Reach new heights and conquer challenges suspended in the air.

2. Kayaking: Dive into an exciting aquatic adventure as students navigate the waters and tackle thrilling challenges, including an exhilarating kayaking slide!

3. Flying Fox: Experience the rush of adrenaline as you soar through the air on this thrilling ride.

4. Flying Kiwi: Embrace the spirit of adventure with this unique flying experience.

5. Bouncy Pillow: Jump, bounce, and laugh to your heart's content on this giant inflatable pillow.

6. Frisbee Golf: Test your aim and precision in this fun twist on the classic game of golf.

7. Top Team: Collaborate with peers to conquer challenges and emerge victorious as a team.

8. Low Ropes Course: Navigate obstacles close to the ground, perfect for building confidence and trust.

9. Orienteering: Sharpen navigation skills while exploring the great outdoors in an exciting treasure hunt.

10. Raft Building: Collaborate and construct robust rafts capable of carrying the entire group, fostering teamwork and problem-solving skills along the way.

11. Speed Slide: Feel the thrill of the descent as you zoom down this exhilarating slide.

12. Team Initiatives: Tackle thought-provoking challenges designed to strengthen communication and problem-solving skills.

13. Water Slide: Cool off and make a splash on this refreshing aquatic adventure.

With such a diverse range of activities, Camp Columba promises a week filled with excitement, growth, and lifelong memories for your child. To catch a glimpse of the adventures that await, we invite you to explore the Camp Columba gallery [here](https://www.campcolumba.org.nz/gallery/).

Camp Columba offers a fully catered experience, ensuring that students are well-fed throughout their stay. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided by a local company, with options available for those with dietary restrictions such as gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegetarian preferences. Special dietary needs can be accommodated upon request to ensure that every student enjoys delicious and satisfying meals.Additionally, we kindly ask students to bring some homemade baking to contribute. Not only does this help keep costs down, but it also provides a variety of tasty snacks to enjoy throughout the day. So, get ready to indulge in hearty meals and scrumptious treats during your time at Camp Columba!

The other significant advantage to using Camp Columba is the reduction of risk to your child.  All events that involve risk are run by onsite professionals who have the latest qualifications and specific expertise to ensure your child is provided with not only a challenging but safe experience. 

With the camp being held near Gore, transport costs and the improved experience have necessitated a cost increase.  We are currently working with several Trusts to have the transport funded, but at this stage, you should expect the camp to cost approximately $400.  We will confirm a final price in March once we know if our applications to the Trusts have been approved.

We can't wait to embark on this journey with your child and witness the incredible moments that unfold. Stay tuned for further updates and details as we prepare for this unforgettable experience!

Ngā mihi

Rob Wells

Year 8 Dean