Earth and Space Science Educators NZ Conference 2026

Earth and Space Science (ESS) connects our rangatahi directly to the big issues changing our world, from local climate shifts to the mysteries of the night sky. To help educators bring this mahi to life, Earth and Science Science Educators NZ is hosting a hands-on event this October.

The University of Canterbury Mount John Observatory overlooking the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo and the snow-capped Southern Alps. Adobe Stock.

This professional development opportunity is designed for anyone teaching Year 7 to 13 ESS who wants to expand their knowledge, gather practical classroom resources, and build deep confidence in the subject. The event bridges the gap between cutting-edge research and the local communities where our students live and learn.

Event Schedule and Highlights

• Tuesday, 6 October: Climate and Antarctic (Christchurch)

  • Registration and Pōwhiri from 1:00 PM at the International Antarctic Centre.

  • Behind-the-scenes educational programmes and interactive activities.

  • Overnight stay in Christchurch.

    
    

• Wednesday, 7 October: Canterbury Earth Sciences & Journey to Tekapo

  • Keynote and workshops at the University of Canterbury Earth Sciences Department, focusing on earth sciences and climate modelling.

  • Evening travel to Tekapo for a session with astronomer Alan Gilmore (weather-dependent astronomy or practical tips on setting up a school astronomy club).

  • Overnight stay in Tekapo.

    
    

• Thursday, 8 October: Mt John and Astronomy (Tekapo)

  • A guided tour of the University of Canterbury Mt John Observatory alongside active researchers and astronomers.

  • Potential Hooker Valley walking field trip guided by Department of Conservation (DOC) experts.

  • Overnight stay in Tekapo.

• Friday, 9 October: Departure and AGM

  • Depart Tekapo at 9:00 AM, arriving at Christchurch Airport by 12:00 PM.

  • ESSENZ Annual General Meeting (AGM) starts at 1:00 PM in Christchurch.

Workshops at the Earth and Space Science Conference (to be confirmed):

The sessions are crafted to support kaiako navigating curriculum changes, particularly across Phases 3 to 5. Attendance funding support may be available through ESSENZ for rural, remote, or brand-new ESS teachers, and additional funding can be explored via the PPTA.

• Starting an Astronomy Club: Practical gear and astrophotography tips with Alan Gilmore.
  

• Climate Data Modelling: Actionable data strategies with Justin Zani.
  

• Classroom Experiments: Fast, engaging practicals with Jim Critchley.
  

• Space Science: Deep dives with Yvette Perrott and Najin Brock.
  

• Antarctic Programmes: Interactive tools from the Antarctic Centre team.
  

• Field Trips & Geology: Localized field science with Jim Critchley and Erin Nolan.
  

• Importance of Dark Skies: Protecting our night skies with Erin Nolan.

More information about the Earth and Space Science Educators Conference is available here: https://www.earthspacescience.org.nz/events

Register Your Interest Here