Enjoying a break from Christchurch and its earthquakes are
(from left) Hafsa (13), Aaliya (10), and Hamsa (12) Shire
and their mother Qaali Mohamed, at Berwick Forest Camp,
yesterday. Photo by Peter McIntosh.
A group of Christchurch residents spent a week at Berwick
Forest Camp to escape the stress of earthquakes, but shaky
ground never featured as a topic of conversation.
The 48 people, migrants from seven different countries,
instead spent their days relaxing and learning about each
other's cultures and religions, hosted by the Otago Youth
Adventure Trust-Rotary Club of Milton Tramping Club.
Camp warden Jenny Scott said the camp came about after club
member Peter Vollweiler thought something should be done for
the people of Christchurch.
Different social agencies were approached and a group of
people who "could do with a break" were nominated.
With support from the Christchurch Migrants Centre, the group
arrived at Berwick on Sunday and spent the week abseiling,
boating on Lake Waihola, travelling on the Taieri Gorge Train
to Pukerangi, day walking and kayaking. They are going home
today.
The camp was run by about 13 volunteers and, with all food,
transport and activities provided free, it cost about
$10,000.
Mrs Scott said it was interesting to take them to Moana Pool
because one family had only been in New Zealand for two
months and had never seen a pool.
"They were a bit apprehensive, but I have never seen such
smiles in all my life," she said.
Among the group was Qaali Mohamed, who moved to Christchurch
from Somalia in 1994.
For her and her three children, Hafsa, Hamsa and Aaliya, the
week had been the "highlight" of the past year.
"It's exciting to meet other ethnicities, and especially the
people who volunteer here. It's really good not to think
about the earthquakes. It's been a peaceful week ... There is
no tension," she said.
The family rented a home in Avonside, which lost electricity
and its water supply during each major earthquake.
Christchurch Migrants Centre community liaison manager Kevin
Park said the trip had been "fantastic".
"Regardless of the races or ethnic backgrounds, we just
became one. I think we will continue our network when we
return to Christchurch. Natural disasters can't kill
community spirit," he said.
- ellie.constantine@odt.co.nz
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