Greetings from Doubtful Sound Year 10 Camp!

Did you know that Doubtful Sound was originally named 'Doubtful Harbour' in 1770 by Captain James Cook as he did not enter the inlet as he was uncertain whether it was navigable under sail. It was later renamed Doubtful Sound by whalers and sealers, although it is not technically a sound but a fiord. U-shaped valleys that have been sculpted by ancient glaciers dominate the local landscape. The fiords that give this corner of New Zealand its name is also teeming with marine life and we have been lucky this week. From Gurnard, Dogfish Sharks, Blue Cod, Jock Stewarts (Sea Perch) to Grouper and Shark we have enjoyed baiting, casting and catching plenty of fish. As part of the camp package, the school hostel provides two 14-foot Stabicraft fizz boats.

We left Dunedin on Monday 8am and after the van ride to Manapouri, boat ride across Manapouri lake and bus ride on the most expensive road (Wilmot pass) built in New Zealand, we arrived at Deep Cove at about 2.30 pm. As soon as we crossed the lake the sand flies were biting. Sandfly bites are not called as such on fishing camp as we prefer to say 'camp souvenirs'. Most of our students this week have returned on Friday with several souvenirs ?. One of the best things about fishing camp is that there is no mobile phone coverage. Deep Cove is in a remote place in Fiordland National Park and it's been fantastic to see the students enjoying good old fashion fun such as talking, playing cards, glow worm and kiwi walks, swimming, boardgames and hanging out, liturgies, quiz and movie nights, confidence course, catching fish and much, much more!

On Tuesday morning the group experienced a strenuous walk in wet conditions up the Hanging Valley track to Kea Rock and Huntleigh Falls. This walk was challenging, but students were outstanding and we all persevered to the top of Huntleigh Falls. We enjoyed fishing in the afternoon. We have been blessed with stunning weather for our Wednesday cruise. The highlight of the week for many was seeing the most beautiful Bottlenose dolphins during this cruise. Dolphins were super friendly and swam in the waves of the boat. The excitement on the boat was indescribable!! After the cruise we went on a walk to Helena Falls – one of the biggest waterfalls in the area. More fishing in the afternoon and we concluded the day with the movie night. There was a lot of fish caught on Thursday and we ended a camp with a three-course dinner, Deep Cove’s got talent and a super fun dance night.

In 2018, Michael Jose, set a record for the most fish caught (73). However, we got a new record holder this year! Oscar Ung has shown a great fishing experience and caught 84 fish in total, including a shark!! Well done Oscar!! 

Overall, a very successful camp!