In this workshop we will delve into how to make a personalised local curriculum for your school. We will explore how your local area and its resources can be used as a catalyst and inspiration for curriculum development. We will work with you to incorporate your cultural narrative including tangata whenua, European settlement, other cultural stories as well as geographical aspects. This creates a curriculum that is unique to your kura and community and encompasses the amazing opportunities and connections you have locally. You will work with Matt, Ngāi Tahu and previous principal and Bianca, Enviro Science Teacher, who have developed local curriculums in partnership with many schools in Aotearoa.
This workshop involves learning about traditional weaving, the tikanga and reasons for these, as well as exploring some hands-on weaving experiences. The workshop will also include appropriate karakia and waiata.
In pre-European times, the seas around Aotearoa were the main food source for most Māori. However, having recently arrived, the earliest Polynesian settlers were used to spearing fish in clear tropical waters. In Aotearoa, the murky seas must have been initially frustrating. Māori went on to develop the fishing hook beyond any other culture on the planet.
This session will look at examples of hooks, lures, traps, nets, and aquaculture, looking at design, manufacture, and functionality. It will also explore some of the tikanga and science around traditional Māori fish harvesting and enhancement methods. This content links to NZ Histories.
Explore the fascinating relationship between plants and their environment with Ruud Kleinpaste in his workshop, “How to Murder Your Plants More Slowly.” Perfect for schools with gardens or access to natural plant areas, this session dives into the challenges plants face from pests and diseases. Learn how these factors influence plant health and discover practical strategies to slow their impact. With Ruud’s signature wit and expertise, this workshop offers valuable insights for educators and students alike, fostering a deeper understanding of plant care and sustainable gardening practices.
This workshop presents three hands-on volcano activities. No.1. Sand volcano model of Banks Peninsula. An exercise in volcanic reconstruction. Using geological and topographic parameters this activity builds and erodes the stages of activity of Banks Peninsula, showing how the landscape developed over geological time and how this is reflected in the landscape today. No. 2. Mentos volcano eruptions. Using the reactive properties of Mentos in diet cola this activity provides a structured approach to developing the theory of scientific testing, observations, recording and analysis, focusing on the simple changing of the volcano’s vent conditions (bottle cap). 3. Igneous rocks. Examination, description and classifications of igneous rock samples. Q and A on formation, processes, localities etc.
Foster a deeper connection to nature and promote practical learning outside the classroom, while fostering an understanding of where food comes from and the importance of sustainability. This workshop will equip you with the tools and knowledge you need to guide your students in creating sustainable, hands on garden projects. Learn plan the layout of your space, how to select the right plants, and how to heal your soil life
Antarctica is a unique natural laboratory that helps us understand the Earth’s climate, ocean systems, and the impact of human activity. This remote and hostile environment directly affects Aotearoa. Demystify climate science and oceanography through engaging practical activities and see how scientists work and live in Antarctica. Let Antarctica inspire you and your students to take action to reduce climate change.
Sue Greenwood and Nikki Wallace-Bell from E5 Art and Clay will guide participants in exploring the beauty and design of mandalas found in nature. Using natural and repurposed objects, attendees will create their own interpretations of these radial patterns. This workshop is ideal for educators who value nature’s influence in art and design. Participants will leave with fresh ideas for mural projects, artwork, or nature play areas.
This workshop will explore what rongoa is including karakia, waiata, sound and energy and how it applies to our modern world. Appropriate tikanga will be explored, accompanied with waiata and karakia. We will make a lip balm and look at New Zealand native trees and how we can use them to enhance our health, along with other rongoa practices for good health.
Most schools have a collection of rocks, but it often becomes jumbled and hard to use. How can the jumbled be turned into something of use and embedded in your learning? In this workshop, Dr Sam Hampton provides advice, directions and hands-on examples of how to get the most out of your rock collection. You are encouraged to bring along your own schools’ collection to work through within the workshop.
The United Nations has declared 2025 as the International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation. Understand the global and local significance of glaciers through this interactive workshop. Our glaciers are disappearing due to climate change and receding glaciers are a major cause of sea level rise. Loss of glacial ice also threatens our water supplies and local communities. Discover what’s unique about New Zealand’s glaciers and the landscapes they shape. Model glacial recession and uncover the importance of these giant rivers of ice.
What do you know about our endemic Canterbury butterflies? This workshop will take you on a crash course on our local butterflies and to provide you with the know-how to create habitats, identify and scientifically pin our gorgeous Lepidoptera. Learn how to get your students involved in the B5 Project and become kaitiaki of their school grounds and the wider community. Connect with butterfly experts both in Canterbury and nationally to help protect our taonga species.
Sue Greenwood and Nikki Wallace-Bell from E5 Art and Clay will guide participants in exploring the beauty and design of mandalas found in nature. Using natural and repurposed objects, attendees will create their own interpretations of these radial patterns. This workshop is ideal for educators who value nature’s influence in art and design. Participants will leave with fresh ideas for mural projects, artwork, or nature play areas.
Learn everything you need to know to successfully grow Kumara in Canterbury. Once thought to be unsuitable for the region, Sandi has proven otherwise and will take you on a journey through the history of this iconic kiwi plant. Participants will learn all the techniques needed to give their students a unique hands on experience of witnesses the full life cycle of the plant from starting slips to harvesting the mature crop.
An exciting, hands-on workshop that brings the art of a bioblitz to life. Participants will learn how to organize and conduct a bioblitz, with a special focus on catching and observing the incredible variety of critters that take to the skies. From delicate insects to dazzling winged wonders, you’ll uncover the secrets of the flying world. Perfect for educators, students, and nature enthusiasts, this workshop promises to inspire curiosity and a deeper appreciation for the creatures that share our skies.
We get to space with rockets and we can explore science concepts to do with rockets through water rockets.
In this workshop we will take you through a few experiments you can do with your students to explore physics and how rockets work.
Many schools have water rocket launches available so these are a fun and accessible way of getting closer to space. Water rockets are suitable for all ages from year 1 through to year 13, with many of the concepts applicable to ESS and Physics.
Who’s responsible for the oceanic disco lights the we call bioluminescence? Is it really causing albatross to swim in circles? Can we catch and get to see some of these mysterious glowing creatures? Why and how do they do it? The disadvantages of glowing in a dark ocean are obvious, so what are the advantages? Join us on a dark oceanic field trip to see if we can find some of the culprits!
Join Ruud Kleinpaste, “The Bugman,” for a nocturnal adventure in “The Tonight Show with The Bugman.” This engaging workshop will unveil the fascinating world of creatures that buzz, creep, and flutter through the night. From stealthy spiders to fluttering moths and glowing glowworms, discover the hidden ecosystem that thrives under the cover of darkness. Using his signature humor and deep knowledge, Ruud will guide you in uncovering the secrets of nocturnal life during this prime time for observing nature’s night shift. Perfect for nature enthusiasts, educators, or anyone curious about the mysteries of the night!
Join “The Space Guys,” Haritina (Hari) and Sam, for an unforgettable evening under the stars in their “Star Party” workshop. Using some of the finest mobile telescopes in New Zealand, this outdoor, after-dark experience offers participants a chance to explore the wonders of the night sky. From distant galaxies to sparkling star clusters and planets in our solar system, Hari and Sam will guide you through the cosmos with their passion and expertise. Perfect for stargazers, educators, and anyone curious about the universe, this workshop promises to leave you awestruck by the beauty and vastness of space.
This workshop involves learning about traditional weaving, the tikanga and reasons for these, as well as exploring some hands-on weaving experiences. The workshop will also include appropriate karakia and waiata.
Puppets have a unique ability to break through barriers to learning.
Puppets allow the operator to step ‘outside themselves’ because the ‘performance’ transfers to the puppet.
Interactions between students and educators using puppets are neutral and non-threatening. This allows students to ask questions and say things they might never normally say to a teacher.
Puppets are incredibly versatile, allowing people who don’t normally have confidence to feel at ease, and allowing humour into normally dry situations. A great way to enhance the learning and retention of information.
Richard has created many hand puppets, string-controlled marionettes, finger puppets, full-body animal costumes and character hats. Join Richard de Hamel in a practical session where we will all make a puppet to take away and discuss and try out a variety of puppet styles.
Check out one of Richard’s presentations here; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=30Np7_k_sWw
Explore the fascinating relationship between plants and their environment with Ruud Kleinpaste in his workshop, “How to Murder Your Plants More Slowly.” Perfect for schools with gardens or access to natural plant areas, this session dives into the challenges plants face from pests and diseases. Learn how these factors influence plant health and discover practical strategies to slow their impact. With Ruud’s signature wit and expertise, this workshop offers valuable insights for educators and students alike, fostering a deeper understanding of plant care and sustainable gardening practices.
Walk through the Christchurch Red Zone with geologist Dr Sam Hampton. The Red Zone is now a place of unmarked boundaries, remnants of sections remain, and the reasons for the creation of the Red Zone is fading in memory. This workshop covers the series of seismic events, the impacts and the resultant changes to the landscape brought on by the natural ground conditions and by decision-makers during the Canterbury Earthquake Sequence. The workshop will discuss what is beneath our feet, what environments were in these areas and how this influenced how the ground responded.
Foster a deeper connection to nature and promote practical learning outside the classroom, while fostering an understanding of where food comes from and the importance of sustainability. This workshop will equip you with the tools and knowledge you need to guide your students in creating sustainable, hands on garden projects. Learn plan the layout of your space, how to select the right plants, and how to heal your soil life
The United Nations has declared 2025 as the International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation.
Understand the global and local significance of glaciers through this interactive workshop.
Our glaciers are disappearing due to climate change and receding glaciers are a major cause of sea level rise. Loss of glacial ice also threatens our water supplies and local communities.
Discover what’s unique about New Zealand’s glaciers and the landscapes they shape. Model glacial recession and uncover the importance of these giant rivers of ice.
A Hands-On Learning Experience for Educators In survival scenarios, you’re rarely alone, and this creates both unique challenges and valuable opportunities for growth. Join us for an immersive team-building experience where you’ll collaborate to create a shelter using only the natural resources provided (a perfect way to bring your local curriculum to life!). This challenge will spark your creativity, deepen your collaboration, and add a fun, slightly competitive edge! Protection is a top priority in wilderness survival, but it’s not as simple as it sounds. While people are naturally inclined to work together, identifying your role within a team dynamic can be tricky. In this experience, you’ll discover how to leverage everyone’s strengths, navigate differences, and find common ground to achieve your goals—skills that are just as valuable in the classroom. The key competencies of Managing Self, Relating to Others, and Participating and Contributing will be at the forefront of this experiential learning activity. This experience will not only help you build practical survival skills, but will also strengthen your resilience, communication, and problem-solving abilities as kaiako — skills that are essential for supporting your ākonga in developing their own teamwork and resilience, both in and out of the classroom. As you reflect on how to work together effectively, you’ll gain strategies to help your students: Enhance their ability to collaborate and work with others; Notice, recognize, and respond to the diverse needs and learning styles of ākonga; Foster whanaungatanga—the building and maintaining of meaningful relationships that create a sense of belonging, shared responsibility, and support within the learning community. By the end of this experience, you’ll walk away with practical skills and valuable insights you can immediately apply to your teaching practice, helping your students not only survive, but thrive, both in school and in life.
Sue Greenwood and Nikki Wallace-Bell from E5 Art and Clay will guide participants in exploring the beauty and design of mandalas found in nature. Using natural and repurposed objects, attendees will create their own interpretations of these radial patterns. This workshop is ideal for educators who value nature’s influence in art and design. Participants will leave with fresh ideas for mural projects, artwork, or nature play areas.
This workshop will explore what rongoa is including karakia, waiata, sound and energy and how it applies to our modern world. Appropriate tikanga will be explored, accompanied with waiata and karakia. We will make a lip balm and look at New Zealand native trees and how we can use them to enhance our health, along with other rongoa practices for good health.
Looking at how schools can investigate/discover what’s going on below the surface. Exploring the undersea world can be problematic. That can either put you off trying or it can create a worthy challenge to try and come up with simple solutions to find out what is going on down there. Low-tech answers can lie in using inexpensive action cameras in smart ways, taking bottom samples, video transects, light traps, plankton sampling, water sampling (temp/salinity/pH etc), sediment deposition and using ROVs. Much of this gear can be designed by students and built in a school’s technology suite. Getting real-world data from the real world, is life experience stuff and its value cannot be underestimated.
An exciting, hands-on workshop that brings the art of a bioblitz to life. Participants will learn how to organize and conduct a bioblitz, with a special focus on catching and observing the incredible variety of critters that take to the skies. From delicate insects to dazzling winged wonders, you’ll uncover the secrets of the flying world. Perfect for educators, students, and nature enthusiasts, this workshop promises to inspire curiosity and a deeper appreciation for the creatures that share our skies.
This workshop presents three hands-on volcano activities. No.1. Sand volcano model of Banks Peninsula. An exercise in volcanic reconstruction. Using geological and topographic parameters this activity builds and erodes the stages of activity of Banks Peninsula, showing how the landscape developed over geological time and how this is reflected in the landscape today. No. 2. Mentos volcano eruptions. Using the reactive properties of Mentos in diet cola this activity provides a structured approach to developing the theory of scientific testing, observations, recording and analysis, focusing on the simple changing of the volcano’s vent conditions (bottle cap). 3. Igneous rocks. Examination, description and classifications of igneous rock samples. Q and A on formation, processes, localities etc.
Learn everything you need to know to successfully grow Kumara in Canterbury. Once thought to be unsuitable for the region, Sandi has proven otherwise and will take you on a journey through the history of this iconic kiwi plant. Participants will learn all the techniques needed to give their students a unique hands on experience of witnesses the full life cycle of the plant from starting slips to harvesting the mature crop.
Discover how to engage and inspire your students through virtual field trips. See how you can create your own virtual field trip experiences without the need for specialised equipment. In this workshop you will take part in an interactive virtual field trip and see how to plan, create, share and evaluate your own virtual field trip. See how online tools and multimedia can engage your students and take them to places they may not otherwise experience. Explore strategies to deepen learning and inspire ākonga to take action within the context of a relevant and authentic virtual field trip.
Sue Greenwood and Nikki Wallace-Bell from E5 Art and Clay will guide participants in exploring the beauty and design of mandalas found in nature. Using natural and repurposed objects, attendees will create their own interpretations of these radial patterns. This workshop is ideal for educators who value nature’s influence in art and design. Participants will leave with fresh ideas for mural projects, artwork, or nature play areas.
In this workshop, we will look at how observing celestial occurrences has helped us build an understanding of the universe. Using scientific investigative approaches and examining scientific methods, we will look closely at the moons of Jupiter to determine the mass of Jupiter. This workshop will look at how we can measure distances in space, angular distances using telescopes and calculating basic relationships. To finish the workshop we will have a session in the planetarium to view both Jupiter and Saturn and try and measure the distance from one of the moons to the planet.
Part of a series of immersive workshops based on the theme “Science in the Kitchen’, combining exploration, observation, and discussion to bring Nature of Science concepts to life.
Transform everyday kitchen recipes into captivating science lessons for biology and chemistry classrooms.
Featured Workshop: How the Cookie Crumbles Learn how to turn a simple cookie recipe into a dynamic science lab.
Highlights: Conduct hands-on investigations focusing on the scientific method. Takeaways: Practical ways to explore the nature of science and foster curiosity through culinary experiments.
This workshop involves learning about traditional weaving, the tikanga and reasons for these, as well as exploring some hands-on weaving experiences. The workshop will also include appropriate karakia and waiata.
Join Marie Haley, a seventh generation descendant of the first French settlers to Akaroa. Marie’s family was involved in many key events in the formation of the South Islands and nations history eg the French purchase and first sighting the British flag. Marie is a natural storyteller, historian and ecologist whose decades of study can showcase the big ideas of the Aotearoa NZ History Curriculum. Learn why Akaroa is now considered the South Islands Waitangi, with five important historic sites that tell “a narrative richer than Waitangi” (H. Evison). Join Marie who will cover topics such as Polynesian navigation, musket wars, imperial rivalry, British intervention, Te Tiriti o Waitangi and the land purchases.
New Zealand/Aotearoa is the envy of many countries, being the only country in the world with a quota-managed fisheries resource for all commercial species. In the long term, how sustainable is commercial and recreational fishing in this country? We will look at Commercial Fish harvesting and the controls and strategies employed to do the job efficiently. How does this compare with Aquaculture? Is aquaculture going to be the answer to supplying consumer demand for seafood? Where will we end up? How will climate change affect the marine environment and the way it works? What effects will be seen on species we are used to having in our waters. Includes a Mussel dissection and a demonstration of mussel water filtering? Includes a mussel dissection and a demonstration of mussel water filtering.
Explore the fascinating relationship between plants and their environment with Ruud Kleinpaste in his workshop, “How to Murder Your Plants More Slowly.” Perfect for schools with gardens or access to natural plant areas, this session dives into the challenges plants face from pests and diseases. Learn how these factors influence plant health and discover practical strategies to slow their impact. With Ruud’s signature wit and expertise, this workshop offers valuable insights for educators and students alike, fostering a deeper understanding of plant care and sustainable gardening practices.
Most schools have a collection of rocks, but it often becomes jumbled and hard to use. How can the jumbled be turned into something of use and embedded in your learning? In this workshop, Dr Sam Hampton provides advice, directions and hands-on examples of how to get the most out of your rock collection. You are encouraged to bring along your own schools’ collection to work through within the workshop.
Foster a deeper connection to nature and promote practical learning outside the classroom, while fostering an understanding of where food comes from and the importance of sustainability. This workshop will equip you with the tools and knowledge you need to guide your students in creating sustainable, hands on garden projects. Learn plan the layout of your space, how to select the right plants, and how to heal your soil life
Engage your students through sharing and creating video. See how you and your ākonga can film, edit and share stories through video without the need for specialised equipment. Discover how to plan, record and edit your own meaningful content. Explore the use of third-party content and how to utilise this without breaching copyright. See how to employ different techniques to extend the quality of your visual and audio recordings and inspire your students to embrace the art of videography.
Sue Greenwood and Nikki Wallace-Bell from E5 Art and Clay will guide participants in exploring the beauty and design of mandalas found in nature. Using natural and repurposed objects, attendees will create their own interpretations of these radial patterns. This workshop is ideal for educators who value nature’s influence in art and design. Participants will leave with fresh ideas for mural projects, artwork, or nature play areas.
This workshop will examine the atmospheric column on Venus, Earth and Mars and how energy is moved around the atmospheres of these planets and the impact this has on the surface. We will also look at the movement of energy in the Sun and how this radiates out to the planets. The workshop will cover concepts such as pressure, heat transfer, the electromagnetic spectrum and gravity. It will be mainly based inside but we will observe the Sun through a Solar Telescope and make observations of sunspots and other prominent solar features. We will also look at an experiment to measure total solar flux (depending on the weather).
Who’s responsible for the oceanic disco lights the we call bioluminescence? Is it really causing albatross to swim in circles? Can we catch and get to see some of these mysterious glowing creatures? Why and how do they do it? The disadvantages of glowing in a dark ocean are obvious, so what are the advantages? Join us on a dark oceanic field trip to see if we can find some of the culprits!
Join Ruud Kleinpaste, “The Bugman,” for a nocturnal adventure in “The Tonight Show with The Bugman.” This engaging workshop will unveil the fascinating world of creatures that buzz, creep, and flutter through the night. From stealthy spiders to fluttering moths and glowing glowworms, discover the hidden ecosystem that thrives under the cover of darkness. Using his signature humor and deep knowledge, Ruud will guide you in uncovering the secrets of nocturnal life during this prime time for observing nature’s night shift. Perfect for nature enthusiasts, educators, or anyone curious about the mysteries of the night!
Get lost with us and unlock your inner strength! We will show you how you deal with the challenges of disorientation and uncertainty. In the face of disorientation and uncertainty, we’ll help you navigate through challenges and make confident, well-informed decisions. With a focus on safety and support, we’ll guide you through the essential priorities of survival and equip you with strategies that will elevate your confidence and resilience.
This hands-on experience is grounded in Te Mātaiaho’s elements of Understand, Know and Do. It is designed to build your personal growth and empower you with practical skills. By the end of the journey, you’ll have the tools to approach challenges like an expert, with a deepened sense of self-awareness, an appreciation for your own strengths, and a stronger connection to te taiao, the natural world.
This immersive adventure is not only engaging, but also highly relevant. The powerful, enduring big ideas are relatable and accessible for both ākonga and kaiako alike. Your newfound knowledge will be highly engaging for your tamariki and easily applied and delivered in a variety of learning contexts. Together, we’ll work through a dynamic and enjoyable experience—one that will boost your confidence, resilience, and appreciation for the world around you.
Join “The Space Guys,” Haritina (Hari) and Sam, for an unforgettable evening under the stars in their “Star Party” workshop. Using some of the finest mobile telescopes in New Zealand, this outdoor, after-dark experience offers participants a chance to explore the wonders of the night sky. From distant galaxies to sparkling star clusters and planets in our solar system, Hari and Sam will guide you through the cosmos with their passion and expertise. Perfect for stargazers, educators, and anyone curious about the universe, this workshop promises to leave you awestruck by the beauty and vastness of space.
As educators, we know that there has been a big push with literacy and numeracy with the new government. Many educators are feeling the pressure to focus on these areas. However, there is a danger that their tamariki are missing out on learning about nature and the environment and, going outside. This workshop will focus on how you can take your tamariki outside into nature for hands-on practical learning, while still focusing on literacy and numeracy.
This workshop will explore what rongoa is including karakia, waiata, sound and energy and how it applies to our modern world. Appropriate tikanga will be explored, accompanied with waiata and karakia. We will make a lip balm and look at New Zealand native trees and how we can use them to enhance our health, along with other rongoa practices for good health.
Aotearoa/NZ is biologically the oldest place on this planet. A Dinosaur museum! Our native plants, insects, frogs, birds, lizards and many other creatures are the oldest in existence. Our native frogs make no noise because they are derived from the very first frogs to ever to evolve, and with only one species, they didn’t need to differentiate using sounds! In other countries Tuatara are known only as fossils but they still live here! It is an amazing heritage that dates back millions of years. The whole story is linked very closely to the Geology of NZ, Gondwanaland, the ice ages, sea level changes, volcanic activity, fault lines and of course fossils!
Explore the fascinating relationship between plants and their environment with Ruud Kleinpaste in his workshop, “How to Murder Your Plants More Slowly.” Perfect for schools with gardens or access to natural plant areas, this session dives into the challenges plants face from pests and diseases. Learn how these factors influence plant health and discover practical strategies to slow their impact. With Ruud’s signature wit and expertise, this workshop offers valuable insights for educators and students alike, fostering a deeper understanding of plant care and sustainable gardening practices.
This workshop presents three hands-on volcano activities. No.1. Sand volcano model of Banks Peninsula. An exercise in volcanic reconstruction. Using geological and topographic parameters this activity builds and erodes the stages of activity of Banks Peninsula, showing how the landscape developed over geological time and how this is reflected in the landscape today. No. 2. Mentos volcano eruptions. Using the reactive properties of Mentos in diet cola this activity provides a structured approach to developing the theory of scientific testing, observations, recording and analysis, focusing on the simple changing of the volcano’s vent conditions (bottle cap). 3. Igneous rocks. Examination, description and classifications of igneous rock samples. Q and A on formation, processes, localities etc.
Learn everything you need to know to successfully grow Kumara in Canterbury. Once thought to be unsuitable for the region, Sandi has proven otherwise and will take you on a journey through the history of this iconic kiwi plant. Participants will learn all the techniques needed to give their students a unique hands on experience of witnesses the full life cycle of the plant from starting slips to harvesting the mature crop.
Discover how to engage and inspire your students through virtual field trips.
See how you can create your own virtual field trip experiences without the need for specialised equipment.
In this workshop you will take part in an interactive virtual field trip and see how to plan, create, share and evaluate your own virtual field trip. See how online tools and multimedia can engage your students and take them to places they may not otherwise experience.
Explore strategies to deepen learning and inspire ākonga to take action within the context of a relevant and authentic virtual field trip.
Sue Greenwood and Nikki Wallace-Bell from E5 Art and Clay will guide participants in exploring the beauty and design of mandalas found in nature. Using natural and repurposed objects, attendees will create their own interpretations of these radial patterns. This workshop is ideal for educators who value nature’s influence in art and design. Participants will leave with fresh ideas for mural projects, artwork, or nature play areas.
Journey into the dynamic world of Aotearoa’s river ecosystems in ‘River Ecosystems – Connecting to Wai through Critters and Tohu’, an engaging workshop designed to immerse educators in the science and stories of our waterways. Engage in activities such as identifying macroinvertebrates, mapping local waterways, and interpreting the signs of a healthy river. This workshop features the popular citizen science Macroinvertebrate Community Index Sampling Game, providing practical ways to teach students about the vital role of critters in assessing river health.
This workshop involves learning about traditional weaving, the tikanga and reasons for these, as well as exploring some hands-on weaving experiences. The workshop will also include appropriate karakia and waiata.
When did the first Polynesians arrive and what inspired them to search for Aotearoa? What cues did the Polynesians use before they set off to find Aotearoa? How did they prepare for such a voyage, navigate and survive during the trip? What did they find when they got here. The answers to most of these questions are hidden, but clues have been left along the way, some coming from unlikely sources. One can only marvel at these remarkable navigators.
An exciting, hands-on workshop that brings the art of a bioblitz to life. Participants will learn how to organize and conduct a bioblitz, with a special focus on catching and observing the incredible variety of critters that take to the skies. From delicate insects to dazzling winged wonders, you’ll uncover the secrets of the flying world. Perfect for educators, students, and nature enthusiasts, this workshop promises to inspire curiosity and a deeper appreciation for the creatures that share our skies.
Walk through the Christchurch Red Zone with geologist Dr Sam Hampton. The Red Zone is now a place of unmarked boundaries, remnants of sections remain, and the reasons for the creation of the Red Zone is fading in memory. This workshop covers the series of seismic events, the impacts and the resultant changes to the landscape brought on by the natural ground conditions and by decision-makers during the Canterbury Earthquake Sequence. The workshop will discuss what is beneath our feet, what environments were in these areas and how this influenced how the ground responded.
Foster a deeper connection to nature and promote practical learning outside the classroom, while fostering an understanding of where food comes from and the importance of sustainability. This workshop will equip you with the tools and knowledge you need to guide your students in creating sustainable, hands on garden projects. Learn plan the layout of your space, how to select the right plants, and how to heal your soil life
The United Nations has declared 2025 as the International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation.
Understand the global and local significance of glaciers through this interactive workshop.
Our glaciers are disappearing due to climate change and receding glaciers are a major cause of sea level rise. Loss of glacial ice also threatens our water supplies and local communities.
Discover what’s unique about New Zealand’s glaciers and the landscapes they shape. Model glacial recession and uncover the importance of these giant rivers of ice.
Sue Greenwood and Nikki Wallace-Bell from E5 Art and Clay will guide participants in exploring the beauty and design of mandalas found in nature. Using natural and repurposed objects, attendees will create their own interpretations of these radial patterns. This workshop is ideal for educators who value nature’s influence in art and design. Participants will leave with fresh ideas for mural projects, artwork, or nature play areas.
