Our cultural programmes designed and run by Russell-Orongo Bay Holiday Park for schools will bring a truly unique experience to your next school trip. 

The Art of Hāngī

A full day/evening of mātauranga (learning) the traditional art of Hangi. From digging the earth oven to prepping the kai (food), decorating the kai room and learning / rehearsing for the evening entertainment. This special experience of Manaakitanga will keep everyone busy from breakfast through to the late evening.

Price available on request.
Minimum numbers: 30
Age Limit: From 7 years old
Time Frame: 9am until 7pm

 

Raranga

Weaving is a living art form passed down from our ancestors and symbolises the survival of the Māori culture.
Learn how to collect the harakeke (flax) according to Māori traditions and learn the practical aspects of flax weaving.
An insight into the incredible qualities of harakeke and Māori tikanga (culture).

Price available on request.

Minimum numbers: 5
Age Limit – 7 years with supervision
Time Frame – 1.5 hours

 

Rongoā

Take a wander around our 14 acres of native bush and learn about the incredible properties of a number of our native plants. From tea drinking, to food and healing a variety of conditions. You will look at the native bush around you with fresh eyes. Harvest and prepare your very own balm.

Price available on request.

Minimum numbers: 5
Age Limit – 7 years with supervision
Time Frame – 1.5 hours

Firepit – Waiata & Narratives

Join us for an evening of waiata, Māori narratives and inspiring stories around our firepit. Toast some marshmallows and take a moment to reflect in the beautiful natural setting under our magnificent starry sky.

Price available on request.

Minimum numbers: 10
Children must be supervised
Time Frame: 1.5 hours

Kiwi Tours – dawn & dusk

The Kiwi bird is a much loved icon of New Zealand. Learn why the māori held the Kiwi in such high regard, travel through their habitat learning some interesting facts and identifying evidence of their presence. Learn how to spot a kiwi in the wild at our Park. While we try our best that you will see a Kiwi on our tour – nature will dictate their presence!

Price available on request.

Minimum numbers: 2
Age Limit – 7 years old
Time Frame: 1.5 hours

Plant a Tree

The act of planting a tree can go a long way to teaching our tamariki the importance of giving back. It’s an opportunity to restore and support toitū toirua (regeneration) of our park.  And it may also contribute to reducing your carbon footprint.

You’ll pay $40 per tree and all profits from the sale of the trees go to Project Island Song – a wildlife sanctuary in the Bay of Islands. Project Island Song have successfully ensured that the seven main islands of Ipipiri, in the eastern Bay of Islands, have been pest mammal free since 2009, allowing the natural eco-systems to be restored.