027 550 0611We have a wide range of school camp activities for anyone who uses the lodge.
School camp activities will vary due to the variation of age groups and class size. The camp activities will also need to fit into what the teacher wants their students to get out of the camp. This is why there is a range of activities which can be adapted to suit.
We have also provided teaching resources with some activities
We are steadily building more.
Teachers have different versions of what they wish to teach and these resources can be adapted to suit. In some cases, individuals are available to come and help out, for example with the trap lines.
Study
Learning about the forest
Native tree identification
Learning about regenerating forests
Local native animals
Kauri extraction
Evening activities
Star gazing
Burma trail
Animals – Glow worms and koura
Conservation
Trap lines for schools
Monitoring pests
Monitoring birds
Waste Education
Physical activities
Tramps and bush walks
Orienteering
Confidence course
Overnight camps
Suggestions for a daily planner
After the list of activities is a schedule of school camp activities that has been put together by George Payne, a teacher who has held many school camps at the lodge and elsewhere.
Visit for a daily planner which you can use to fit things into
Tangihua Nature Trail
The Tangihua Nature Trail provides a great introduction to Northland’s native trees. This is both online and in the bush. Using a cellphone, teachers and students can access videos or in-depth reading material while on-site.
Tramps
There are a wide range of tramps available for all types of people and fitness levels. For more information, visit Tangihua school tramps
Confidence course
The course, built with the help of the New Zealand Navy, includes rope walks and swings, walls, and a flying fox. It offers fun and challenge to students and parents.
Watching a student struggle with an activity, overcome their fear, and walk away proud is an amazing experience.
Take your time to ensure all students can complete the course. It typically takes half a day depending on the age group.
Re Health and safety
The course is regularly inspected by DOC and engineers. Safety harnesses are provided. Instructors are not included – see WorkSafe NZ clarification.
Possum trap lines
To provide hands-on conservation learning. Trapping helps protect native species like kauri snail and invertebrates.
For more details visit here
Monitoring stations
Teaches students how to monitor pests and wildlife.
For more details visit here
Night walks
Explore the bush at night. Spot freshwater crayfish, eels, native fish, and glow worms.
Great location for star gazing using the Southern Cross.
Visit here to learn how to use the Southern Cross
Orienteering and Mapping
Two courses available (long and short).
Download the orienteering course PDF
Use compasses and draw your own map – include trees, tracks, platforms, etc.
Animal and Habitat Study
Various habitats surround the lodge: bush, streams, grasslands. Observe snails, insects, birds.
Visit here – the forest for resources and species index.
Bird Watching
Encourage observation of birds throughout camp. Collect drawings of fantail, tui, and pigeon. Identify calls and behaviour.
Other Activities – wet weather or fill-ins
Unexpected weather? These help fill time.
For more ideas visit other activities
Bivouac building
Important for bush survival. Only use dead materials. Return all items to where they came from. Good sites are along the Horokaka track.
Burma Trail
Two trails: short (200 m from lodge), and long (on the corner). Done at night with ropes and parental help.
Swimming
Multiple swimming holes in the creek. Exercise extreme care when jumping from rocks.
