In Week One of Term Two, we held our second Year 13 History camp in the Bay of Islands. Our camp involved 44 students visiting significant historical sites around the region that will support them with their assessments and deeper understanding of the history of Aotearoa New Zealand. This included a day spent in Kororāreka visiting Christ Church, Pompallier House and Maiki/Flagstaff Hill. Our second day consisted of a guided tour around the Waitangi Treaty Grounds and an afternoon at the Kerikeri Mission and Kororipo Pā. On our way back to kura, we had a quick and very cold visit to Te Ruapekapeka. 

A huge thank you to all of our ākonga for being such engaged learners and for showing respect for the spaces we visited. Also, big mihi to Mr Verdonk, honorary History teacher Miss Harrison and Whaea Aiwa for supporting us with this camp. 

- Miss Gardyne and Mr Marshall 

Student Reflection 

This was my first history camp ever, and I can say that it was an experience to remember. Seeing all the sights significant to New Zealand's history is truly something I will never forget. Going to the Museum of Waitangi was an unforgettable experience as well. The tour guide was amazing in educating us about every detail in relation to the Treaty of Waitangi, going deep into perspectives, culture, and societal details. It was crazy to me that I was actually standing where the treaty was signed, where the flagpole was cut down and the actual house of James Busby, and with the tour guide there to describe everything while we walked, it was like I was living in a moment of the past. New Zealand has such a deep and rich history towards it and what makes me so happy is how deeply its people hold it so close to their hearts, making sure their citizens and even tourists know how important their history, their people and culture are. With all the support the teachers gave, this trip turned out to be amazing; the scenes, the accommodation, the education, and the memories made, these are the things that I will forever hold dear to my heart.

- Danie Saberon