Last week 60 students were lucky enough to visit the Island of Tiritiri Matangi in the Hauraki Gulf.

The epic adventure began EARLY in the morning.  Children, teachers and parents helpers arrived at school at 7:15am ready to board the double decker bus. We navigated the traffic into the city and arrived just after 8pm in downtown Auckland city.  Next we had to walk down towards the viaduct. Then began the labour intensive scrubbing and spraying our shoes (Ms Aldworth was quick on the spray gun) to ensure no pests came along for the ride. We then boarded the ferry and headed off out into the Hauraki Gulf.  

The ferry took us out of the harbour and along past North Head and Takapuna Beach - it was a smooth ride all the way out to Gulf Harbour.  We made a quick stop, picking up some of the island volunteers before heading out to the Island. 

Arriving at the Island we were greeted by bird song, jellyfish and some dedicated, knowledgable volunteers. After a briefing by the ranger we got into our groups and hit the trails.  Each group had the most enthusiastic volunteer that led us through the forest and imparted all their wisdom as we wandered.  Did you know that 40 years ago Tiritiri Matangi was a farm and over time and hundreds of hours of work by volunteers it has been turned into a native bush sanctuary that is pest free! 

We encountered bird song, that was actually unbelievable, nothing like I have ever experienced.  It truly is a special place.  We walked along a trail that led us up to the lighthouse, which is where we had lunch.  After lunch we did a scavenger hunt and then made our way back down to the boat.  I think the most amazing part of the day was listening to our children talk about our native plants, bush and animals.  Seeing their knowledge in action filled me with immense pride.  The volunteers were blown away by our tamariki too! 

It was a full on day and I was exhausted by the time we caught the ferry home, but it was worth it.  I am already looking forward to next year.

Mrs Oliveira