HDYONZ National Youth Camp 2024

HDYO NZ are proud to be hosting the inaugural HDYO NZ Youth Camp at Hanmer Springs Forest Camp 17 - 19 May 2024.

We are excited to bring our community together for a Youth Camp at the spectacular venue of Hanmer Springs Forest Camp. Camps were a highlight of many New Zealanders impacted by Huntington's Disease so it was important for HDYO NZ to carry on this legacy and continue providing these experiences to our youth and young adults. The camp will be 3 days filled with fun activities, connection and seminars with guest speakers Neurologist - Dr Richard Roxborough and Genetic Counsellor - Harry Fraser.

We have received significant financial support which allows us to offer the camp at NO COST to our attendees (the value of the camp is $350 per person) and we would like to thank our Sponsors - Potters Trust, Mark Chapple, Sir Richard Faull and the Centre for Brain Research and Lions and Rotary Clubs throughout New Zealand. There will also be a travel fund available for those who require additional financial support.

Due to the capacity of the camp we unfortunately have a limited number of places available so please complete the application form by 1st April if you would like to attend and you will be notified of a decision by 5th April 2024.

Important Dates

Application Deadline - 20 March

Applicants Notified - 5 April

HDYO NZ Youth Camp - 17 - 19 May

Eligibility criteria - please make sure you meet the below criteria before completing this application form

1) The individual must be at risk or have an immediate family member or partner at risk of Huntington's disease (Documentation may be requested).

2) Young people aged 17 - 35 years old on 17th May 2024.

3) You must reside in New Zealand.

The Board will consider other individuals on a case by case basis.

Programme

HDYO-NZ Huntington’s Disease Youth Camp 2024 Programme (exact timing TBC)

Day 1: Friday 17 May 2024

Transport from Christchurch to Hanmer Springs Forest Camp
Welcome by HDYO-NZ/camp organisers
Introductions & icebreakers
Dinner
Free time

Day 2: Saturday 18 May 2024

0800 – 0900: Breakfast
0930 – 1130: Fun group activity 1 (facilitated by Activity Hanmer)
1130 – 1200: Break/Morning tea
1200 – 1300: Clinical talk about Huntington’s by neurologist Dr Richard Roxburgh
1300 – 1400: Lunch
1400 – 1430: Genetic counseling talk by genetic counsellor Harry Fraser
1445 – 1645: Fun group activity 2 (facilitated by Activity Hanmer)
1645 – 1715: Break/Afternoon tea
1715 – 1745: Family planning talk

Member of the HD community to share firsthand experience with preimplantation genetic diagnosis, for those interested in learning about family planning options at this stage of their Huntington’s journey.

1745-1815: Inspirational story by a HD family member
1830 – 2000: Dinner
2000 – 2200: Free time