Have you ever been to Camp Morley?
Long-time locals might remember the huge amount of voluntary work that went into setting it up, but many of us have, some of us for years, just driven past wondering what’s out of sight at 171 Clarks Beach Road. And are we welcome?
Come with me for the answer!
Head down the long and twisty drive with its neatly mown verges. Rabbits sprint for cover where one day will be houses. You’ll find plenty of parking. Beyond the buildings the beach beckons.
The expansive and well-manicured lawn is half-circled with accommodation cabins, two large halls and an office/work shed. The Manager’s house is tucked away, almost out of sight.
By the leggy beachside casuarinas, on both camp and beach sides, are picnic tables, benches, fire pits, swings, a trebuchet and a well-appointed kids’ playground. Much of the equipment is new and Duncan, the manager, is building more fun fixtures, including a floating hole-in-one pontoon.
Who owns this place?
The Methodist Church decided, back in the 60’s, to build an affordable beachside accommodation complex to serve any large group having a special occasion. (It’s only $1445 per night to hire the entire complex.) Guests provide their own bedding, self-cater and do the cleaning. Or, if a group wants a break from cooking, they can be catered for at very reasonable prices.
The first cabins were ex-army huts. In the 80s they were upgraded to eight Lockwood chalets, which will soon be undergoing their next makeover. Each unit has bunks and one double bed, a toilet, shower and tiny kitchenette. Surplus mattresses are also available for marae-style overflow.
The spacious dining room, adjacent to a sunny lounge, is supported by a well-equipped commercial kitchen with a large walk-in chiller, freezer, crockery, cutlery and all the usual catering equipment.
The facilities can take between 30-100 people. About 50% of visitors are church groups, with sports groups, schools, extended families, corporate retreats (and more) making up the balance.
The videos at campmorley.co.nz show activities such as kayaks, archery, slug gun shooting and raft building races. Everyone’s having fun!
Is it available for locals to use?
Absolutely. The seats and swings on the beach are deliberately positioned so beach walkers can sit and enjoy. If there are no guests onsite, local children are also welcome to play on the equipment on the camp side of the trees. And early next year the Residents Association is planning a function there so we can all discover this secret gem and its hospitable managers.
So who runs it?
Meet managers Duncan and Sonia Evans. After 30 years as a management accountant, five hectic years in adventure tourism, and a fascinating backstory only hinted at, Duncan decided he was ready for a new challenge. He brought his enthusiasm and energy to Camp Morley in 2019. It only takes a few minutes of conversation to realise he’s a man of action! Just one example: two years ago his then-new girlfriend, Sonia, came for a visit. Five weeks later they were married! She’s as capable, friendly and outgoing as her husband.
Their bookings are nearly at capacity for the next twelve months and they could do with more hands. If you know anyone looking for work (it could be part-time) in admin, catering, hydroponics (yes, that’s a sideline) or helping run the activities, they’d love to hear from you. campmorley.co.nz/ or phone 027 489 3337.
