WHERE HAVE ALL THE TAKAHĒ GONE?

'Where have all the takahē gone?' explores the communities in which takahē currently live and the impact of the presence or absence of introduced mammals within these communities.

Zealandia offers a unique opportunity to encounter the iconic takahē, giving students an appreciation for the challenges these amazing birds encounter daily in the environments in which they live. This session supports Biology Achievement Standard 91158.

Overview: In this study day, students engage in indoor workshops and a two hour walk in the sanctuary, deepening their understanding of the ecological principles at play in the different communities in which takahē are found. Discussion centres around the key species, their interactions, adaptations and the impact of introduced mammals on the communities, as well as considering the various biotic and abiotic factors at play.

Session Type: The morning 9.30am - 1pm is facilitated by Zealandia Educators who will support the students in their learning and observations. The afternoon 1pm - 2.30pm is self-guided, where teachers and the group will have access to the education room, plenty of resources, and have one Educator on site to support with group discussions and other queries. The Zealandia Educator will not be facilitating the afternoon. Please see this padlet for session plan and resources associated with the session.

Curriculum links: Level 7 Living World, Ecology: Explore ecological distribution patterns and explain possible causes for these patterns.

Suitable for: Yr 12

Duration: 3.5 hours (9.30am - 1pm), with optional additional 2.5 hour self-guided (1pm - 2.30pm).

Timeslots: 9.30am - 1pm or 9.30am - 2.30pm

Numbers: Minimum 10 students. Maximum ~50 students.

Available to: Domestic and international students enrolled at or billeted through a New Zealand school.

Cost: Students $15.00 each. For every four (4) students you are able to bring one (1) adult free of charge. Additional adults will be charged $24 pp.

Photo Credit: Scott Langdale