Cleft Camp 2027
14 to 16 April 2027 · Willow Park, Auckland
A three-day residential camp for young New Zealanders aged 10 to 17 with cleft conditions, run by Cleft New Zealand Inc.
Camp is a chance to try activities, make friends, and meet other young people who understand your experience.
We are currently taking expressions of interest for adults to help us deliver this wonderful experience for our tamariki. Registrations for attendance will open in September 2026.
What young people told us after the 2024 camp
Made new friends
The most common thing campers said.
Felt less isolated
They met other people who share cleft.
More confidence afterwards
Reported by attendees and families.
These themes came from feedback after the 2024 camp.
What to expect
Camp includes full-day activities, shared meals, and evenings together at Willow Park. Young people can try new things, relax, and spend time with peers who understand cleft without it needing to be explained.
Peer connection is at the heart of camp. Trained leaders provide steady support through a clear daily routine, time to rest, and time to talk when a young person wants to.
There are two age groups: 10 to 12, and 13 to 17. Activities and conversations are planned to suit each group.
Cost
Camp is fully funded. Travel, accommodation, meals, and activities are covered by Cleft New Zealand. A refundable NZD $100 deposit confirms a young person’s place. If the deposit would make it hard for your family to take part, you can ask for a hardship waiver. You do not need to explain why.
Frequently asked questions
Who can attend?
Young people in New Zealand who will be aged 10 to 17 on 14 April 2027 and have a cleft condition.
What does it cost?
Camp is fully funded. There are no fees. A refundable NZD $100 deposit confirms your young person’s place and is returned when they attend. If the deposit would make it hard for your family to take part, you can ask for a hardship waiver. You do not need to explain why.
What if my young person is nervous?
That is normal. Many young people at the 2024 camp felt anxious beforehand, and almost all were glad they came. We plan for this with a clear routine, caring leaders, and time to settle in.
Can I apply as a volunteer if I do not have cleft myself?
Yes. Lived experience of cleft is strongly preferred and prioritised, but we assess every application as a whole.
When do applications close?
Attendee registrations close 24 February 2027. Volunteer applications close 27 September 2026.
Next steps
Register your young person when registrations open
A parent or caregiver completes the registration. It ends with a refundable NZD $100 deposit or a hardship waiver.
Apply to be a camp leader
Volunteers make camp possible. Lived experience of cleft is strongly valued. There is no fee to apply.