For this year’s Koru Camp, we returned to the familiar surroundings of Kokako Lodge, located southwest of Auckland. While the Koru whānau knows this place well, it was a brand-new experience for our Year 9 students.
For them, camp wasn’t just about adventure—it was about teamwork, building friendships, and learning to care for one another. Most importantly, it was a chance to have fun while stepping out of their comfort zones.
Throughout the camp, students took part in a variety of activities, each offering a valuable life lesson. High beams helped them conquer their fears, while low ropes taught the importance of trust and collaboration. Raft building fostered creativity, rock climbing proved their inner strength, and archery encouraged patience and precision. These weren’t just games—they were opportunities for personal growth, disguised as adventure.
With fun came responsibility. Each mealtime, a group took charge of tidying the kitchen, ensuring everyone played their part. On the final day, students worked together to clean and pack up, reinforcing the idea that freedom comes with responsibility—an essential lesson in growing up.
Of course, no camp experience is complete without great food! Thanks to Mrs Thomson’s incredible cooking, students enjoyed delicious meals, from nachos to DIY burgers. They also learned the Haka and explored the BDSC Our Way values, deepening their understanding of what it truly means to be part of the BDSC community.
Koru Camp 2025 was more than just a trip—it was a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and friendship. For our Year 9 students, it marked the beginning of an exciting five-year adventure together.
~ Mr Euden, Koru Whānau Leader