"Even in the past trips we've done, we've taken the kids to Auckland and they buzz out because we've got a McDonald's in Raumanga, they've never been that far. They're excited, the majority of them have never seen the snow."
Now the students only need to raise another $10,000.
Rhya-Jay Tawa, 12, Haze Heta, 11, and Rythm Kiaka Taua-Glassie, 11 are part of the group who will be attending the trip. They said they were "really excited".
"We're going down to the snow, we're going to go diving," said Rhya-Jay.
"All I know is that it's going to be really really really really fun," said Rythm.
Hauraki said they have been fundraising for the trip through sausage sizzles and raffles since the beginning of the year.
They're hoping to raise around $5000 through an open garden event which was held last weekend and is on again this weekend.
Whangārei couple Catherine and David Davies-Colley found out about the students' goal and decided to open up their two-acre (0.8ha) magnolia garden at Poroti to the public for $5.
"It's a pretty big opportunity for these kids particularly because without support they wouldn't be able to go," Hauraki said.
"I'll follow the kids all the way through their education and being their first year of intermediate, and especially at Tikipunga High, they're here for a long time. We really wanted to establish those relationships and camp is a really good way to do that."
The students were grateful for everyone - including Hillary Outdoors - for their support.
"It's very very helpful and they're kind people. It's appreciated," said Rythm.
*The garden, at 37 Proctor Rd, will be open from 10am to 4pm on Saturday and Sunday.
