Young burn survivors find their second family and a place to grow confidence, self-esteem and friendships at Camp Awhi.

During the weekend and start of this week, 22 young people aged between seven and 17 years old from all around the country took part in a five day camp at Ngatuhoa Lodge.

Camp Awhi has been running for more than 35 years – being provided by Burn Support Charitable Trust to young burn survivors throughout New Zealand.

The charity's event co-ordinator Michele Henry says the camp offers a safe environment to raise young burn survivors' self-esteem and encourage independence. 'It's amazing and humbling when the opportunity is provided to meet others similarly affected children and adults, who provide the inspiration and encouragement necessary to go on to live a happy, fulfilling and productive life, despite sometimes very severe disfigurement.”

The kids enjoyed activities all across the Bay of Plenty, from Blokarting at Baypark, exploring virtual worlds at The Cave in Papamoa through to water filled action at Waimarino Adventure Park.

Camp-goers had tasty food to fuel their fun too.

'We were well looked after by McDonalds in Papamoa. They sponsored our entire lunch!”

Enjoying camp was 11-year-old Hamiora Reihana from Te Kuiti who sustained significant burns after his pyjamas caught flame when he was next to a heater. Hearing about Camp Awhi three years ago, Hamiora has found his second whānau there. "Camp is like family,” says Hamiora.

'It makes me stronger going back to school and I don't feel alone." Also at camp this week was 13-year-old Jovana Stanković from Auckland who likes camp as a place to share stories with people that share similar experiences.

Michele says Jovana sustained her burns from getting her foot caught in a treadmill. 'The machine kept going and caused a third degree burn to her ankle,” says Michele.

If you or someone you know has sustained burn injuries and needs support, call: 021 863 670 or visit: www.burns.org.nz