The five-day gathering is being held at Christian Youth Camp's facilities near Lake Waihola, and is organised by the C3 Church, also known as the Christian City Church.
The evangelical church, which began in Sydney more than 25 years ago and now also operates in North America, Africa, Asia and Europe, has recently developed its activities in the South Island, with church groups established in Christchurch, Dunedin and, most recently, Invercargill.
The church' s youth section is known as "Primal".
Youth pastor Dawn Burgess, who is participating with her pastor husband, Steve Burgess, said the summer camp aimed to bring together young people from the Christchurch, Dunedin and Invercargill churches, as well as other friends and associates who wanted to take part.
Most participants are aged between 14 and 25.
Sometimes young people could find themselves getting into trouble with drink and drugs during the summer holidays, Mrs Burgess said.
The camp was offering a fun way of celebrating the holidays, which focused on Christianity and was also alcohol and drug-free, she said.
