Archibald Park adventures with Blockhouse Bay Intermediate, Glenavon School, Kelston Girls’ College and Kelston Intermediate School
Splashy Nature Day, held over two days in March, was an unforgettable experience for students and teachers alike this year! Supported by many local organisations the event provided a unique opportunity for students to connect with nature, learn new skills, and develop a deeper appreciation of the Whau River ecosytem.
What students loved
From kayaking through the mangroves to learning life-saving water skills, students had plenty of favourite moments. Many had never been kayaking before, which made it a particularly exciting new adventure! Others enjoyed the chance to compete against friends on the rowing machines and play the digital rowing games.
A highlight for many was the drowning prevention session, where they learned how to wear a lifejacket properly, how to signal for help, and how to assist someone in distress. An invaluable educational experience – that could also save lives one day.
The art station gave students a chance to slow down and get creative with chalk on Te Whau Pathway.
What students learnt
The event introduced students to the local environment around the Whau River in a way they had never experienced before. They learned about macro-organisms in the water and what their presence tells us about river cleanliness – more legs mean they need cleaner water! Everyone needs to help to improve the health of the Whau River.
Key takeaways the students reported were:
- The Māori names of local locations.
- How to identify the health of a waterway based on insects and microorganisms.
- The importance of keeping waterways clean
- How much plastic waste is polluting the environment.
The Student Wishlist for Next Time
Once back at school, students were already looking forward to the next Te Whau Pathway Splashy Nature Day. Ideas they had for future activities included:
- More kayaking! They wanted to go further along the Whau River, try rafting, and even find a waterfall!
- Learning about birds.
- Going on a foraging activity.
- Cleaning the river with the Sea Cleaners.
Teacher feedback
Teachers said they loved watching their students engage with the environment in new exciting ways. Seeing them explore the mangroves, touch the plants, and learn about native seeds while on the water was great.
Teachers also appreciated:
- Hands-on art activities that incorporated local Māori place names.
- The environmental call to action, especially regarding rubbish and conservation.
- Opportunities for students to push themselves beyond their comfort zones in a safe and supportive environment.
The Teacher Wishlist for Next Time
Teachers had slightly different suggestions to make future events even better:
- Having kayaking races or games.
- Organising a cleanup activity with the Sea Cleaners.
- Expanding the learning opportunities to include more about local plants and birds.
The Splashy Nature Day impact
Splashy Nature Day, just like our Planting Nature Days, make a real impact on students’ lives and their connection to the Whau river by
- Introducing many students to kayaking, giving them more confidence to try water activities in the future.
- Helping students develop physical, social, and cultural skills, including learning local place names in Māori
- Providing a welcoming space for students to try new activities in small groups without being judged.
The event not only provided an exciting day out of the classroom but also left students with valuable knowledge about water safety, environmental conservation, and their local waterways.
Thank you to the enthusiasm and suggestions from students and teachers – this will help shape our future events, ensuring they continue to be engaging, educational, and impactful.
Ngā mihi
Thank you to all the amazing organisations that made Splashy Nature Days possible.
Big thanks to the New Zealand Government, Henderson Massey and Whau Local Boards and The Trusts for the funding that helps make these events possible. Thanks also to the Auckland Council for providing project management and coordination. A shout out to bus company K/NET/C for the free bus transport for the rangatahi and the schools who have so willingly participated.
Want to get involved?
If you’d like to contribute to or attend future events, whether through volunteering, funding, or resources, please reach out to Catherine at catherine@ecomatters.org.nz. Your support helps keep Whau Nature Days keep running!
Glenavon School and Kelston Intermediate Photos
Kelston Girls and Blockhouse Bay Intermediate Photos
About this event
| Date | Wednesday 5th March 2025 and Thursday 20 March 2025 |
| Location | Archibald Park, Kelston |
| Type | Awa Connection Day, Nature Day |
| Who | Auckland Council (Park Rangers), Auckland Sea Kayaks, Drowning Prevention, Mountains to Sea Conservation Trust, Sea Cleaners, Te Whau Pathway Environment Trust, West End Rowing Club, Whau the People |
| Schools | Blockhouse Bay Intermediate, Glenavon School, Kelston Girls’ College and Kelston Intermediate School |
| Funders | Sport Waitākere and Whau Local Board |
