To link with our learning regarding ' Ko Wai Au?' (Who am I?) and writing our own pēpeha we have the opportunity to spend the day on a local maunga (mountain), Maungatautari, on Friday 28th February.

This trip will last the duration of a whole school day and will cost $15 per child. Please complete the attached Google permission form as soon as possible.

The focus of the trip will be:

- Encountering rare and endangered New Zealand species in their natural forest habitat. Examples include pītoitoi/North Island robins, kākā, tūī, korimako/bellbirds, hihi, tīeke/saddlebacks, pīwakawaka/fantails, pōpokotea/whiteheads, kererū and wētā.

- Visiting the Tautari wetlands and potentially seeing takahē and tuatara while learning about the importance of this habitat.

- Building on knowledge about New Zealand’s unique biodiversity, the adaptations of our flora, fauna and fungi and the interconnectedness of ecosystems.

- Learning about how native species as well as introduced pests are monitored and managed in a sanctuary environment. Some hands-on activities include interpreting tracking tunnels and reading bird bands.

- Discovering the rich history of a community-led conservation project that is New Zealand’s largest fenced sanctuary.

- Mātauranga Māori and the significance of the maunga for Mana Whenua. 

Activities will be run by guides who work at the centre. Please pay the $15 trip cost at the school office or online to the school account 12-3122-0203336-00 and reference your child's name. 

We will require parent helpers to join us for this trip. All parents wishing to attend will be required to drive private vehicles to Maungatautari. There is no cost for parent helpers. Please note this trip is not suitable for toddlers/younger siblings to attend. We thank you for your understanding with this.

If you have any queries regarding this trip or any extra information we may require about your child please do not hesitate to contact us,

Permission form

Amelia Meertens and Scott Johnson