On Tuesday 30th July, both our 13OED classes left for 4 days and headed to Whakapapa Village on the side of Mt Ruapehu. In total we had 37 students. Many of which was their first time in the snow. During the trip we completed the Tama Lakes walk and spent a day Skiing and Snowboarding on Whakapapa Ski Field. Apart from some wind closing some of the chairlifts, the weather was beautiful for us and the entire trip went great. Students now analyse the trip considering the safety management strategies used. 

The Tama Lakes walk is a 5 hour return tramp that heads up between the saddle of Mt Ngauruhoe and Mt Ruapehu. Students performed exceptionally well and enjoyed the physical challenge.

During a snow day, students received coaching in their chosen discipline and many were able to go from not being able to stand up, to repeatedly skiing/snowboarding the full length of the open slopes. It was a pleasure to watch these students build confidence and come off the mountain knowing they had achieved and beaten their goals.

Huge thanks to Ms Power, Ms Butler-Shaw, Mr Dunn and Mr Ferkins for spending the week with them.

by Michael Ferkins