These programmes provide relevant and authentic learning experiences through hands on activities. Some of the sessions are offered in the classroom, some in the natural environment, and some at Council itself.
This poster gives an overview of the topics we cover (pdf 1.4 MB).
Please note: Those programmes marked with (S) are available to school groups only.
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Local government education helps students and community members learn how councils work, make decisions, and support the community. This programme helps people understand their role in the community and how they can make a difference.
Te Tai o Aorere: Our Place - Your Voice, Your Community, Your Council (S)
The Tasman District Council civic education program includes a school visit where students learn about the Council’s community contributions, operations, the roles of elected members, various departments, funding sources, and decision-making processes.
It also involves a visit to the Council's office in Richmond, offering a guided tour of departments, discussions with experts, and a mock role-play in the Council Chambers, where students debate decisions on the allocation of ratepayer money.
Email us at education@tasman.govt.nz for more details about this programme.
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The Climate Change Learning Programme engages year 7 and 8 students weekly across a whole term to build climate literacy through hands-on activities and critical discussions. Students understand the ‘why’ behind our changing climate and are empowered to take positive actions through council submissions, art and environmental projects.
The Climate Change Learning Programme, led by Will Stoval, teaches students about climate change literacy through interactive activities and experiments.
It promotes collaboration, discussion, and critical thinking.
After the in-class sessions, students passionate about climate and environmental action are encouraged to share their perspectives through council submissions, creative art projects, or other peaceful and constructive methods of their choice.
Email us at education@tasman.govt.nz for more details about this programme.
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Are you planning to enhance your school grounds with edible, sensory or native gardens? Perhaps you’d like to explore local mature forest habitats, learn about the benefits of native plants, or understand the problem with pest species? Our team can facilitate tree planting events, plant propagation activities and support development in your schools living landscape.
We have a variety of engaging options to explore. Students can dive into the world of edible gardening through hands-on experiences, learning everything from garden design and seed germination to nurturing seedlings and understanding the plant life cycle. They’ll walk away with practical skills to grow and care for their own gardens.
Discover the world of the mōhua penguin through engaging lessons that inspire curiosity and a sense of responsibility for their protection. Students learn about penguins and local conservation challenges, through a collection of fun, curriculum-aligned activities that promote environmental guardianship.
Pest Patrol (S)Students can uncover the exciting and varied work of Biosecurity Officers, who help protect Tasman from invasive plants and animals. Whether it’s flying drones, identifying strange bugs, or releasing biocontrol agents, no two days are the same—and there are plenty of ways to get involved.
This offers the the opportunity to take part in one-day tree planting events. These rewarding experiences allow students to support the environment, connect with their community, and build a sense of belonging. Events usually take place in late autumn and winter.
Email us at education@tasman.govt.nz for more details about any of these programmes.
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Find out what’s the problem with waste, and where your rubbish and recycling end up.Learn about composting food scraps and garden waste with workshops for all ages. We offer interactive class sessions to learn about waste and can facilitate small groups to visit the Richmond Recycling Centre or landfill.
Dive into composting and learn how simple actions at home can reduce your environmental impact.
Whether you're just starting out or already composting, we offer free workshops, expert advice, and practical tools to help you succeed. We'll help you find the composting system that best suits you and your whānau.
Explore where your waste really goes—and how you can make a positive difference.
Students can take a guided tour of the Richmond Recycling Centre or visit the landfill to see the waste journey up close.
Email us at education@tasman.govt.nz for more details about these programmes.
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Learn about drinking, storm and waste water systems with our interactive water boards and catchment model. Understand how urbanisation impacts our freshwater ecology with citizen science kits. Adopt a stream, monitor its quality over time and explore the interconnectedness of land and water.
Explore the Mountains to Sea , provides an in-depth experience of New Zealand’s freshwater ecosystems, including lakes, wetlands, rivers, and streams. Participants learn about the importance of these environments and their connection to the broader landscape.
Here we focus on the seashore and its biodiversity with "Marine Metre², It encourages participants to monitor and protect coastal species, emphasizing the vital link between land and sea and how understanding the marine environment can lead to effective conservation efforts.
Understanding our drinking, waste and stormwater systems, by exploring the effects of urbanisation on the water cycle.
It covers topics like drinking water sources, wastewater treatment, and stormwater systems, teaching participants the importance of maintaining clean waterways and preventing pollutants from entering the system.
Email us at education@tasman.govt.nz for more details about these programmes.
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Safety education equips students and community members with essential knowledge to stay safe. This programme covers important topics such as emergency preparedness, road safety, and how to interact safely with dogs.
Children will learn how to avoid dog bites, the proper way to approach unfamiliar dogs, the key responsibilities of dog owners, and the daily duties of an Animal Management Officer.
Email us at education@tasman.govt.nz for more details about this programme.
