Last week more than 300 students travelled to the Whangaparāoa Peninsula for the annual Year 7 camp at Shakespear Regional Park. The week provided opportunities for new AJHS students to get to know one another, build independence, and challenge themselves in a new environment.

Students rotated through a range of fun activities including sailing, kayaking, coasteering, orienteering, night walks, games, and team-building tasks. Despite a few breezy days, our students adapted well and supported each other throughout. 

During the week, students showed courage and perseverance as they stepped outside their comfort zones and took on new experiences. Some of these students had never slept away from home before, let alone done so in a 3-person tent!

We’d like to acknowledge the amazing Year 10 student leaders for their maturity and commitment to mentoring our Year 7 students. Their guidance and support contributed significantly to the success of the camp. 

And a huge thank you also to AJHS staffwho worked hard to set up and run the camp so efficiently. It’s always a big undertaking at the start of the new school year. We are also very grateful to our fabulous parent helpers. From assisting with setup to supervising and staying overnight — including enduring three days without showers — your support made this camp possible. We can’t do this without our awesome AJHS community. Thank you.

Overall, our 2026 Year 7 Camp was a positive and successful week for all involved.