Schools and Groups

Education for Schools and Groups

The Pirongia Te Aroaro o Kahu Restoration Society offers schools and groups educational programs on Mt Pirongia, focusing on topics like stream and insect life, plant biodiversity, and pest control.

We provide curriculum-linked sessions from half-day to multi-day, support for community conservation activities like planting and pest control, and access to the new Envirocentre for environmental programs and workshops. We also offer hands-on opportunities for groups to contribute to restoration efforts. 

Educational programs and workshops

  • Curriculum-linked sessions: The society can provide school and group sessions ranging from a half-day up to five days, which can be linked to NZ curriculum or NZQA standards.

  • Outdoor education: We offer hands-on experiences in areas such as stream and insect investigations, and plant biodiversity.

  • Envirocentre: The new Envirocentre is planned to host a variety of environmental programs, workshops, and hands-on opportunities for groups of all ages.

  • Community conservation: We assist with community conservation activities and offer training in areas like native planting, pest control, and understanding native ecosystems. 

Hands-on restoration activities

  • Pest control: Groups can get involved in activities like stoat trapping and bait station maintenance, which are vital for protecting native species.

  • Restoration planting: The society promotes and assists with various local planting projects, providing opportunities for groups to help re-establish native plants.

  • Monitoring: Visitors can learn about and assist with the monitoring of native species, including kōkako, bats, and dactylanthus (wood rose)

Other support and resources

  • Information and support: The society provides information on tree and shrub planting, weed management, and linking with environmental agencies.

  • Networking: We can help link groups with other local conservation groups and provide information on community conservation funding.

  • Māori culture: The society can provide training and experience in Māori tikanga related to Mt Pirongia, enhancing the educational experience