The Outdoor Classroom Lonsdale Park Camp was kindly donated to the youth of Northland (Auckland to the Cape) by Pop and Mrs Driver in 1963, on their 50th wedding anniversary.
During this time it is estimated that over 35,000 people have used the camp. Lonsdale Park is a charitable trust and is run by a Camp Board on a voluntary basis. They continually source funds, grants, monetary and otherwise to help with the maintenance and up keep of the grounds and buildings.
Lonsdale Park Camp has something for everyone. It is best suited for school groups that want the children to experience the outdoors and challenge their comfort zones. And is also a great place for youth groups, sports clubs, church groups and family & whanau reunions. There are a variety of opportunities to explore group skills and test individuals. These include a Confidence Course, Commando courses, Blind fold course, a Conservation Bush Trail area with 11 activity stations, Team Building area, orienteering and lots of room for other activities. There is a great Hiking Trail through stunning native bush, crossing the Takou streams several times and ending with a swim in the river. Take lunch and make a day of it.
There are several places of historical interest in the immediate vicinity which schools also access while staying at the camp, including Whangaroa Museum, Puketi forest and the Rainbow Warrior memorial. Extra opportunities for studying marine life can be accessed at the nearby Matauri or Te Ngaere bays beaches.
