Discover the geographic diversity from Auckland to Tauranga. In just 225 kilometres, you'll traverse five distinct geographical landscapes, including volcanic fields and subtropical rainforests.

Travel through New Zealand’s rich food belt, where fertile volcanic soils support the growth of a wide variety of crops. Descend into the lowlands formed by flooding from the Waikato River, entering the heart of the country’s dairy farming region. Cross the Waihou River and move into the Coromandel Range, a mountain spine following a major tectonic fault line. Arrive at Karangahake Gorge on the Ōhinemuri River, known for its clear water flowing from the surrounding mountains.

Visit the Waihi Gold Discovery Centre to explore gold mining past and present, with a focus on the science behind extraction. Learn how gold and silver are released from quartz through a sequence of chemical reactions, then examine modern mining methods at Martha Hill that reduce environmental impact. Today, the operation runs almost entirely beneath the town, with little visible surface evidence.

Follow the journey of water from the Pacific Ocean to Tauranga Harbour, through the estuary and river, and into the rainforest-covered mountains. Monitor how each interconnected ecosystem changes along the way using scientific observation.

Observe how the Wairoa River flows into Tauranga Harbour and out to the Pacific Ocean from Mount Maunganui (Mauao), a coastal landmark overlooking the estuary. Learn how tidal movements circulate seawater through the harbour, carrying nutrient-rich plankton along the coast to support marine food chains. This walk is weather dependent.

Study rivers and estuaries as interconnected, low-energy systems where freshwater meets the sea. During an intertidal marine ecology session, examine wetland and estuary environments to assess how upstream watershed management supports conservation. Use aerial imagery to trace river flow and tidal movement, conduct plankton studies to understand marine food systems, and complete transect surveys along the Wairoa River to measure sediment deposits and shellfish populations as indicators of ecosystem health.

Explore macro environments through a hands-on study of watersheds, forests, and river systems. At McLaren’s Falls Park, examine how rainforests, geology, streams, and soils interact within a high-rainfall watershed. Fieldwork includes rainforest exploration, stream discharge measurements, water-quality testing using biological indicators, and a lunch break during the day.

Explore sustainability through science and systems thinking as you discover how natural processes and human innovation work together to support healthy ecosystems and sustainable food and energy production.

Visit a working kiwifruit orchard and learn how the Coastal Bay of Plenty’s climate and soil create ideal growing conditions.

Before you see Rotorua, you may smell it first: sulphur. It’s a fitting introduction to a city shaped by geothermal forces. Rotorua offers a striking look at volcanic activity, with steam rising across the city from several thermal areas. One of its geysers erupts multiple times each day, sending water high into the air.

Enjoy a scenic cruise on Lake Rotoiti, a large volcanic lake in the Bay of Plenty region. Accessible only by boat, the lake is known for its remote Manupirua Hot Springs along the shoreline. Take in the geothermal landscape during the cruise, enjoy lunch onboard, and spend time relaxing in the naturally heated hot pools surrounded by forested scenery.

Reflect through guided discussion to deepen critical thinking, reinforce active learning and consider diverse perspectives. By sharing ideas and engaging in meaningful dialogue, students build understanding, strengthen collaboration and gain new insights.

The Māori term for intergenerational guardianship is kaitiakitanga. It reflects the responsibility of a community to care for land, water, and natural resources, ensuring they are protected and sustained for future generations.

See kiwi conservation in action and learn about New Zealand’s national icon, its native habitat, and what makes this unique bird so special. Visit the hatchery and follow the conservation journey from egg incubation and hatching to raising each chick until it reaches about 1 kg before being released into its natural habitat.

Help restore biodiversity by planting native trees that expand the rainforest and reintroduce indigenous species. You'll also pot a seedling, giving it the chance to grow before being planted in a new forest the following year.

Sit back and enjoy the ride as the Skyline Rotorua Gondola lifts you high above Rotorua and Lake Rotorua for sweeping views of the region. At the top, take an exciting Luge ride through more than a kilometre of Redwood forest, choosing your own pace along the track. Ride the chairlift back up for additional views, and take time to explore the Jelly Belly Store and the jelly bean art gallery at the summit.

Reflect through guided discussion to deepen critical thinking, reinforce active learning and consider diverse perspectives. By sharing ideas and engaging in meaningful dialogue, students build understanding, strengthen collaboration and gain new insights.