Earlier this year, severe weather on Banks Peninsula impacted parts of the site, requiring the temporary closure of Powell Village while significant repairs and safety improvements were completed. Since then, extensive work has been undertaken, including landscaping, bridge replacements, pathway and driveway repairs, and a refresh of the Powell Village toilet facilities. The goal is simple: to ensure Wainui remains a safe, adventurous and memorable place for young people to learn and grow.
The good news is that Powell Village is on track to reopen in spring, and bookings remain available later in Term 3 and throughout Term 4. Schools that thought a Wainui camp might not be possible this year still have the opportunity to experience everything the site has to offer.
Alongside site improvements, Wainui has welcomed new leadership and fresh expertise. Anna Shanks stepped into the Camps Manager role in April and has been leading flood recovery and maintenance projects while preparing for the return of campers. With a diverse background spanning Antarctica, maritime operations and high-safety environments, Anna brings a calm, practical and people-focused approach to the role.
The team will also grow with the arrival of Brian Paulino, an experienced outdoor educator who has spent more than a decade leading outdoor education and expedition programmes across Asia. Joining them this season is an international team of instructors bringing expertise in outdoor pursuits, environmental education, the arts, sport and leadership development. Together, they will help create the memorable experiences that Wainui is known for.
Another welcome addition is camp cook Andy, whose focus on healthy, hearty meals is already making an impression. Great food has always been an important part of the camp experience, helping young people feel comfortable, connected and ready for adventure.
Despite the challenges of the past year, the Wainui team remains optimistic about the future. As recovery work nears completion, the focus is firmly on providing outstanding outdoor education experiences grounded in honesty, responsibility, inclusion and kindness. The team looks forward to welcoming schools back to Wainui and helping the next generation of campers create memories that will last a lifetime.
Interested in bringing your school to Wainui Park? With limited availability remaining in Terms 3 and 4, now is a great time to start planning your next camp adventure.