Whakatāne Kiwi Trust | Education Programme

Lian Soh
8 hours ago
2 min read

Kiwi chick being gently held during a conservation education programme run by Whakatāne Kiwi Trust in native bush — © Whakatāne Kiwi Trust. All rights reserved.

This article provides information about a science-related experience to support school planning.

The Whakatāne Kiwi Trust education programme offers schools an authentic, place-based opportunity to explore conservation science, biodiversity, and kaitiakitanga in action. Grounded in real conservation work, the programme connects ākonga with the science, values, and community effort behind protecting kiwi in the eastern Bay of Plenty.

Designed to support curriculum learning across multiple year levels, the programme brings together ecology, environmental science, and citizen action in a way that is locally relevant and deeply meaningful. Students engage with the realities of conservation work while developing an understanding of why kiwi protection matters, both regionally and nationally.

What students learn

The Whakatāne Kiwi Trust Education Programme provides a fantastic opportunity for young learners to:

Learn about kiwi and other native forest species
Discover how incredibly unique New Zealand's flora and fauna is
Gain insight into many of the conservation challenges in Aotearoa
Learn about one of the local conservation projects that is making a difference in the community
Immerse themselves in nature, discovering the sights and sounds of Ōhope Scenic Reserve through an interactive outdoor field trip featuring nature-based games, activities, and challenges.

Learning is framed around real-world examples, helping students see conservation as an ongoing, collaborative process rather than an abstract idea.

Education Brochure.pdf

Preschool Education Brochure.pdf

How the programme works

The Whakatāne Kiwi Trust education programme is a science-based initiative focused on protecting one of Aotearoa’s most iconic taonga species, the kiwi.

The programme emphasises taupuhipuhi (interconnectedness and interdependence) and kaitiakitanga, helping students understand how ecological systems, human actions, and community responsibility are linked. Learning is grounded in real conservation efforts, supporting students to see themselves as capable contributors to protecting the natural environment in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Educational sessions are flexible and customisable, allowing programmes to be adapted to meet the specific needs of individual classes or groups. Options include classroom-based visits as well as shorter or more focused programme formats, depending on school context and learning goals.

Sessions are tailored to suit the age, prior knowledge, and learning intentions of each group, ensuring learning is accessible, relevant, and developmentally appropriate.

Contact | More Info

For more details or to schedule a class/school visit, please reach out to education@whakatanekiwi.org.nz and be sure to download the brochures for full programme guidelines
See the Whakatāne Kiwi Trust Education Programme homepage