We started our week at the National Park with torrential rain, sub-ten degree temperature, and cloudy skies.  Luckily, our accommodation at both Pipers and Manaowhenua had beautifully warm fireplaces and steaming hot chocolate.  By Tuesday, the weather made a slight turn for the better – a little bit of rain didn’t dampen our spirits as much as it soaked our clothes. With thermals, waterproofs, and gleeful smiles, students either set out on Biology, Geography, History, English, Retreat, or Amazing Race activities for the day.  That night during the Liturgy, we focused our prayer on the crossing we all hoped to do.

On Wednesday, it was almost as if the skies had cleared just for us!  It was the perfect day to do both the Tongariro Crossing and the alternative Old Coach Road walk.  Students, teachers and parents enjoyed beautiful walks with clear skies, spectacular views and, most importantly, no rain.  After a long and much needed sleep, we spent the rest of the week rotating around activities.  On Thursday night we held our very own camp concert where students, parents and teachers shared their wonderful talents.  After our activities on Friday, we enjoyed the long bus ride home to Auckland.

On behalf of the students, we would like to say a massive thank you to all of the parents and teachers that made Year 12 Camp possible.  School camps are events that stay in our memories well past our time at Carmel College, and Year 12 Camp will definitely be one that we will never forget.  

Lily Dwyer, Year 12