Summer Camp in a nutshell is: a relaxed camp for high school aged teens based around water sports most days with a devotion or testimony in the evening. 

The camp was founded and run by Graham and Wanda Ashby (along with a great team of other folk) at Fisherman’s Bend (near the Aviemore Dam in the Waitaki Valley) for 25 years. The early camps stayed in tents with all kinds of weather thrown at the camp … camp just roughed it out and made the most of it. Summer Camp has predominantly been run just before Christmas straight after high school finishes for the year. 

More recently it’s been led by Brad and Vanessa Anderson along with a strong cohort of leaders and cooks.

The location of camp has changed since 2022 where it is now based at Lakeland Park Christian Camp in Queenstown, however the traditions formed over its long history remain with the ‘round the table’ and  ‘milk bottles’ challenges featuring in the night time activities.  And at the end of camp the team with the most points will be awarded the Ashby Shield.

If you want to be more involved, below are some ways you might be able to help:

• Boats/Jetskis – we are often in need of those who can bring boats or water skis to camp and provide the water sports.  If this sounds like you please let us know using the contact details provided.
• Leaders – Whilst we have a great bunch of leaders, sometimes we can run short.  If you are interested in being a leader please reach out to us via the contact details provided.  This camp suits leaders who are active and relate well with teenagers.
• Prayer – we believe God has blessed this camp and those who have attended over the years.  Please join us in praying for campers, leaders, the right messages in our devotions, camp safety, and for all involved to know our God and Saviour personally.

Introducing the dynamic duo Brad and Vanessa Anderson from Christchurch.

Back in the ’90s amidst the neon colours and questionable fashion choices, Brad and Vanessa locked eyes across a crowded youth camp bonfire. Sparks flew faster than a runaway lawnmower, and the rest is history! Having fellowshipped at Bryndwr Chapel for over 20 years, they have over three decades of youth ministry work together under their belts. They are dedicated to spreading the good news to youth and young people which stemmed from their own experience of attending South Island Summit (a sports camp pioneered by Graham Ashby) as teenagers and appreciated the benefit of growing Christian friendships across the south Island. Those connections were an encouragement to them and inspires them to invest in camps such as Easter and New Year’s camps at Lakeland Christian Park in Queenstown as much as they can, as well as Summer Camp. But hold onto to your hats, these two also coordinate and attend short term mission trips to the deaf school/hostel in Suva, Fiji where they take young and old Christians to help the staff, and share God’s word and love to the deaf children.

Brad and Vanessa are also the proud parents of two strapping lads – Logan and Reuben. These boys are now all grown up and in some ways following in their parents’ footsteps as youth leaders at Bryndwr Chapel. Reuben is also a leader at Summer Camp.

Brad and Vanessa Anderson are supported by a wonderful bunch of leaders:

Anna Devereaux

Garth Devereaux

Hamish Goatley

Heidi George

Karena George

Kate Gilchrist

Laura Gilchrist

Lorna McEwan

Lucas Broom

Luke Gilchrist

Reuben Anderson

Theo Field

Thomas Gilpin