Camps for Schools

Planning a school camp that balances education, adventure, and safety can be a challenge. At Adventure Activities NZ, we make it easy to find the perfect camps for schools across Aotearoa. Whether you are organising a Year 7 leadership retreat, a Year 10 adventurous journey, or a primary school outdoor experience, our directory connects you with New Zealand’s top school camp venues and activity providers.

From rugged outdoor education centres in the South Island to accessible coastal camps in the North Island, discover venues designed to deliver unforgettable Education Outside the Classroom (EOTC) experiences.

Featured School Camp Activities & Programmes

What makes a camp memorable? It’s the activities. Our listed providers offer a diverse range of challenges suited for different age groups and abilities.

  • Adventure Based Learning (ABL): Team-building initiatives, high ropes courses, and problem-solving challenges perfect for Year 9 and Year 10 camps.

  • Water Safety & Aquatics: Kayaking, rafting, and surf survival programs that teach vital water confidence.

  • Bushcraft & Survival: Orienteering, shelter building, and tramping experiences that foster resilience.

  • Cultural & Environmental: Marae-based stays and conservation education programmes.

From rugged outdoor education centres in the South Island to accessible coastal camps in the North Island, discover venues designed to deliver unforgettable Education Outside the Classroom (EOTC) experiences.

Planning Your School Camp: A Checklist for Teachers

Organising a camp involves significant logistics. Use our directory to tick off the big items:

  1. Venue Capacity: Filter for camps that can host large cohorts or intimate class groups.

  2. Catering Options: Choose between fully catered service (to give teachers a break) or self-catered commercial kitchens to keep costs down.

  3. RAMs & Safety: Look for providers that supply Risk Analysis and Management System (RAMS) forms to assist your paperwork.

  4. Wet Weather Options: Ensure your chosen venue has indoor halls or rainy-day alternatives.

Browse Schools Camps by Region

Find school group accommodation and activity providers near you. Save on transport costs by finding local gems, or plan a big trip to a new region.

North Island School Camps

South Island School Camps

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How much do school camps in NZ cost?
A: Costs vary depending on the level of service. Self-catered bunkroom accommodation is the most budget-friendly option, while fully catered programmes with instructor-led activities will cost more. Our directory allows you to contact venues directly for quotes.

Q: Are these venues suitable for primary school camps?
A: Yes! Many venues cater specifically to younger students (Years 4-6) with lower-risk activities, fenced boundaries, and comfortable lodge-style accommodation.

Q: Can we hire specific activity instructors?
A: Absolutely. Many school camp venues offer “programme only” or “accommodation plus programme” packages where qualified instructors run the sessions, allowing teachers to focus on supervision and pastoral care.