From the 2nd to the 6th of March, the Year 12 students had the amazing opportunity to spend a week at the Tongariro National Park. Students attended a variety of field trips with subjects, such as History, Media Studies, Biology, and Geography, to fun outings, such as Retreat and an Amazing Race. History visited the National Army Museum to learn about the exhibits, while Media Studies filmed a promotional video on Tongariro. Biology measured trees and their species, while Geography travelled to the top of Ruapehu to survey the environment. Amazing Race explored various locations around Tongariro National Park completing challenging objectives. Retreat offered a meditative experience to garner a stronger relationship with God. On Thursday night, there was a riveting Camp Concert, which featured items from enthusiastic students such as dances, rap battles, and truly captivating storytelling. The performances brought together students and teachers alike and truly fostered a sense of camaraderie throughout the camp.
The most anticipated event of Year 12 Camp took place: the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Setting off at 8.30 am, some students walked the whole 19.4km of the Crossing, whereas others opted to walk Old Coach Road, which was challenging nonetheless! Luckily, the good weather, and sunshine accompanied the students on their walks. The Crossing took around 6 to 8 hours to complete, with different groups going at either a fast, moderate, or slower pace. Although tiring, the Crossing offered spectacular views from Mount Tongariro, including the dazzling green Emerald Lakes, the enormous Blue Lake, and the towering Red Crater volcano as the most astounding landmarks. Naturally, the highlight was watching the National Park from the peak of the Crossing– which evoked a sense of fulfilment after a tricky uphill climb towards the summit. Both of the walks offered an opportunity for students to prove themselves and gather courage to overcome challenges, whether it was the pain on the feet due to the long walk or enduring the smell of the sulfur lakes. All students were back in their cozy lodges by 6pm to enjoy a meal prepared by the Pipers staff and to walk around the friendly town of Waimarino.
Undoubtedly, Year 12 Camp was an incredibly rewarding experience, which offered valuable takeaways for all the students. The knowledge gathered from subject trips, the fun during the Amazing Race and the Tongariro Crossing Walks, and the peace found in the Retreat and Liturgy will be valuable assets for the rest of our time at Carmel. We are deeply grateful to all the staff and parents who accompanied us, helping make camp unforgettable and providing relentless support towards all students. This was truly a wonderful camp that we will always cherish because of your unwavering support, so from the bottom of all our hearts, thank you.
– Bernie Hoyo-Gibson, Isabella Foster
