2008 Year 5 Rotorua Trip: 22nd-23rd May

Team 5 enjoyed a successful overnight stay in Rotorua on Thursday 22 and Friday 23 May. All members of the group were immersed in a celebration of Maori culture, and idyllic New Zealand. The students discovered the story behind the Buried Village, enjoying a walk around the submerged whares, and along the stream filled with rainbow trout. Their behaviour was exemplary, earning our school library two books.

At Te Puia, the students were guided around the thermal park, explored the carving and weaving studios, and performed in the meeting house. The girls were graceful with their poi dance, whilst the boys were more boisterous with a stirring rendition of the haka. The highlight for many on the trip was the evening performance at Tamaki Village. After the wero (challenge), there was a tour around the village. There was then a show of Maori song and dance, pois, ti rakau and the formidable haka. The evening was completed with a lavish hangi feast, and a special song and cake for James Percival’s birthday.

The students of Team 5 were a credit to Campbells Bay in terms of their enthusiasm, spirit and behaviour. This was epitomised at the Tamaki Village when the co-director of the organisation, Brian Tamaki, made special notice of the behaviour and respect our students demonstrated during their visit. Congratulations to all of the students! A big thank you to all of the parents and teachers who supported us on the trip!