School Camps
Join us for an unforgettable school camp experience
Our experienced team are here to help you organise your next school camp. We offer a unique environment and experience for your students. Once you have decided on your preferred dates we can work through what you would like to achieve from your specific camp, what activities you would like, and of course the cost of your camp.
School Group Adventures
The OMAC experience is based on two key learning approaches; Place-based Education and Experiential Learning. Place-based Education takes our community and geographical location as the context for learning and Experiential Learning is the philosophy that recognises that hands-on learning and doing is where many students / ākonga find success.
With Place-based Education and Experiential Learning as our foundation, OMAC has developed a local curriculum to strengthen students' learning opportunities and to celebrate our unique place. This local curriculum is available to schools as a collection of Real-life Learning Themes. Our signature Real-life Learning Themes are selected by school leaders to create a unique medley of learning opportunities relevant and appropriate for the ākonga at your school.
Our signature Real-life Learning Themes
KAYAKING
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Through this experiential learning unit, students/ākonga will develop foundational kayaking skills while fostering water safety awareness and connecting with the outdoors.
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Our fleet of sit-on kayaks are perfect for learning to paddle in our bay. This activity incorporates water safety and environmental awareness, cultural connections, teamwork and leadership skills.
OCEAN TO PLATE
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A cooking experience with a difference. In this activity ākonga will explore and participate in the journey of kaimoana as it comes from the ocean to their own plate.
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Students will gain valuable insights into sustainable fishing practices and marine ecosystems while also receiving hands-on training in food preparation, cooking, and presentation. This activity seamlessly blends marine science with hospitality, food technology, culinary techniques, and adaptability, providing a well-rounded educational experience.
SAILING
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The OMAC point of difference. Learn to sail with our resident professional world-class sailor Dean Salthouse. Students will learn the skills of sailing in our sailing dinghy fleet ideal for beginners.
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Students will grow in their confidence as they learn from Dean’s experience, learning to read the wind and the foundations of sailing whilst thoroughly enjoying his stories of adventures on the sea.
SURFING (starting 2025)
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The east coast of Aotea has some amazing surf beaches, perfect for learning this new skill. Connect with the moana at beautiful Mabeys Beach for a full day, off site experience with a qualified surf instructor.
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Students will learn the basis of all aspects of surfing including balance, paddling and timing, along with connecting with te taiao/nature, and promoting mental and physical wellbeing.
PADDLE BOARDING
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Learning to paddleboard is an exhilarating experience that not only builds balance and strength but also fosters teamwork as students navigate the water together.
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Students learn balance and coordination while engaging in fun team-building activities that boost confidence and deepen appreciation for the ocean and shared accomplishments.
SNORKELLING
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Our primary focus is on marine activities, ensuring that opportunities for snorkelling, swimming, and leaping off the wharf are fully embraced.
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Engaging in these aquatic adventures will allow OMAC students to explore the underwater world, fostering confidence and a sense of adventure along the way.
BUSHCRAFT & SURVIVAL SKILLS
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How do you survive in the outdoors? In this activity, students will learn basic skills and crafting techniques for wilderness survival.
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It is all about preparedness and problem-solving skills. Ākonga must think on their feet, adapt and collaborate. Self-sufficiency and teamwork are developed to work out how to handle unexpected situations away from the comforts of home.
LEADERSHIP & TEAM CHALLENGES
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Develop leadership and teamwork skills through a wide range of challenges and activities. Teams will to learn how to problem solve together in an encouraging way.
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Challenges set the foundation for successful teamwork, providing ample opportunities for participants to review their performance and make improvements within a short span of time.
OVERNIGHT WILDERNESS CAMP
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Introduce students to the fundamentals of camping, outdoor safety, and Leave No Trace principles.
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This overnight adventure, typically scheduled later in the week, combines essential outdoor skills like bushcraft, navigation, and survival techniques grounded in safety and ethical practices. It's more than just camping—it's about fostering a deeper connection to the environment, teaching conservation, and nurturing stewardship of the whenua, flora, and fauna. Plus, with Great Barrier Island being a certified Dark Sky Sanctuary, you'll experience some of the most breathtaking stargazing on the planet, immersing yourself in nature both day and night.
What’s included
All Activities
Are based on two key learning approaches; Place-based Education and Experiential Learning.
Place-based Education takes our community and geographical location as the context for learning and Experiential Learning is the philosophy that recognises that hands-on learning and doing is where many students / ākonga find success.
Accommodation
Simple, cozy bunk room accommodation
Amenities:
two bunks in each cabin
shared bathroom facilities
Meals
Our chefs offer exceptional camp food. They love to cook and serve, which shows in their prepared meals.
We can also provide meals to suit your group experience and expectations and customise the experience wherever possible to meet your program requirements.