Late March brought together 46 teachers from 21 schools across the region, who joined community group representatives in Horowhenua for our regional Enviroschools teacher hui. It was a day that united a passionate group of educators dedicated to deepening their environmental learning journeys.
The theme was Mountain to the Sea, where participants explored a series of local environments that showcased the region’s rich ecological diversity. The hui began on the outskirts of Levin, where teachers visited the new predator‑free site, followed by a walk through the lush Waiopehu scenic bush.
Attendees exploring the predator free site, and making recycled paper nature journals to record their notes for the day
From there, the group moved towards the sea, where they were welcomed by Poroutawhao School students who led an engaging tour of their outdoor classroom. The day concluded at Waitārere Beach, where teachers immersed themselves in the coastal habitats, learning about coastal plants, seabirds and coastal webs of life.
The hui moved to the Sea at Waitārere Beach to learn about coastal environments
Attendees left feeling inspired, energised, and connected, with many taking away fresh ideas, new relationships, and renewed enthusiasm to bring back to their schools. It was a powerful reminder of the impact that shared experiences in nature can have on both teaching practice and community building.
Teacher feedback included:
‘I loved all of it! Networking with other enviro-leaders’
‘[loved the] different workshops, knowledgeable people, kura visit’
‘the ideas and initiatives available to schools especially the teaching resources’
We couldn’t run these days without support from others, so a huge thanks to Muaūpoko Tribal Authority, NZTA Waka Kotahi, Central Energy Trust Wildbase Recovery Centre, Massey University, and all our city and district councils for supporting Enviroschools and making this event happen.
Sarah Williams, Enviroschools Regional Coordinator, Horizons Regional Council