Level 1 Geography - Term 3 field trip to Tūhaitara Coastal Park

A cold and showery start didn’t dampen the enthusiasm of 38 Level 1 Geography students and their teachers on a recent day trip to Tūhaitara Coastal Park.

An energetic walk out to Tūtaepatu Lagoon was first on the itinerary - led by the informative and most helpful Ranger - Deane Barlow. Information was shared about the sustainability of the park and the many efforts to restore this as a natural and cultural resource. After a showery morning tea break the students participated in planting around one of the many biota nodes.

The afternoon’s activities consisted of a very informative talk by Deane (and Mikayla) around pest management in the park. We finished with a walk to the beach to see some of the plantings on the dunes and to have a bit of beach time. A fun and informative day was had by all. Huge thanks to the team at Tūhaitara Coastal Park for sharing their knowledge and passion for the restoration of this precious taonga.

“Tūhaitara Coastal Park is a registered charity dedicated to the rehabilitation and management of the 700ha coastal park, which spans from the Waimakariri River to Waikuku Beach. The park is home to many natural features of local, regional, and national importance. We strive to protect and preserve these natural wonders for future generations to enjoy as well as enhancing Ngāi Tahi Whanui values and mahinga kai for the community.” https://www.tuhaitarapark.org.nz/