Ōhope Christian Camp has welcomed a new chapter this summer, with new managers stepping into the role and bringing fresh ideas, digital know-how, and a strong sense of hospitality to the much-loved coastal camp.

Nicky and Jean-Pierre Neethling began managing the camp in mid-December, taking over from long-time managers Paul and Daphne Atkinson, who retired after years of dedicated service.

Although new to camp management, the couple say they have been enjoying the challenge and the community that comes with the role.

“It’s been a lot of fun,” Mrs Neethling said.

“There are challenges, but nothing you can’t manage with a good attitude and taking it one day at a time.”

The opportunity came about after a Facebook post caught the attention of Mrs Neethling’s father, who attends Knox Presbyterian Church in Whakatāne.

Ōhope Presbyterian Church is located next to the camp, and though both are owned by the Presbyterian Church, they are managed separately.

From there, an informal conversation turned into interviews, police and reference checks, and eventually the couple moved onsite.

Mrs Neethling, from Whakatāne, and Mr Neethling, originally from Namibia, recently returned to New Zealand after living in Japan.

Mrs Neethling teaches ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) part-time at Whakatāne High School.

Mr Neethling runs his own creative business, Blue Flame Studios, specialising in graphic design, photography, videography, and website development – skills that are shaping the future direction of the camp.

“One of the reasons we were hired was to improve the camp’s digital presence,” Mr Neethling said.

“At the moment there’s no website, and the Facebook page needed updating.

“We want to make it easier for people to see availability and understand that the camp is open to more than just school groups.”

Traditionally, the camp has been busiest during summer and for school or church camps in terms one and four.

Outside those periods, the site has often sat empty. They want people to know the camp is open to walk-in campers all year round.

“There’s no reason the camp should be empty between group bookings,” Mr Neethling said.

“People drive past and assume it’s closed or only for schools.

“We want to change that perception and help people see this as another accommodation option in Ōhope.”

So far, the response has been positive. Over summer, the camp has hosted families, van-lifers, backpackers, and even a cyclist travelling around New Zealand, all drawn by the relaxed, family friendly environment.

The camp remains a Christian camp with clear behavioural expectations, and Mrs Neethling said visitors had been respectful and appreciative of the atmosphere.

“It’s not a party place,” she said. “We’re a family camp – quiet at night, no smoking or drinking – and people have been great with that.”

Day-to-day life as camp managers includes early mornings cleaning facilities, helping campers settle in, and dealing with the occasional maintenance issue.

Thanks to the solid groundwork laid by previous managers, the camp is in good condition, though the couple admit they’ve already learned a few handyman skills along the way – occasionally with help from campers themselves.

During recent heavy rain, the managers opened the camp hall to shelter campers who were braving the storm in tents.

Despite the weather, there was no flooding, thanks to an effective drainage system installed by previous managers. Areas that once pooled with water remained mostly dry.

Looking ahead, plans are under way for a new website and online booking system, to be launched later this year. They also plan to install a vacancy/no-vacancy sign at the entrance.

Longer-term ideas include boosting winter occupancy through promotions and highlighting the year-round appeal of the Eastern Bay.

“Ōhope is still beautiful in winter,” Mrs Neethling said.

“There are bush walks, bike trails, and plenty to enjoy even if you’re not swimming.”

The couple speak warmly of the wider support they’ve received from campers, the newly refreshed camp committee, and the Presbyterian network connected to the site.

“We’re standing on the shoulders of people who’ve done amazing work here,” Mrs Neethling said.

“Our goal is to maintain that foundation while strengthening the camp’s digital presence and letting people know we’re here and open for business – including walk-in campers, not just large pre-booked groups.”

The camp offers cabin accommodation, as well as tent sites.

For bookings or inquiries, contact Ohope Christian Camp by phone (312 4496), Facebook (Ohope Christian Camp), or email ([email protected]), with a website and online booking system coming soon.