The preservation of nature is not just about saving our precious flora and fauna; it’s a way of connecting, educating, and inspiring future generations to take meaningful action. The Okarito Plant Project, in collaboration with Development West Coast (DWC) and Westland High School, is proving that conservation efforts can also serve as powerful learning opportunities, igniting a passion for sustainability and fostering a global perspective on environmental stewardship.
Recently, DWC facilitated an incredible three-day environmental education experience for Westland High School’s international students. This initiative provided an unforgettable opportunity for students to immerse themselves in nature, connect with local communities, and explore conservation methods practiced in New Zealand. Here’s how the trip unfolded and the impact it had on both the students and the environment.
A New Generation of Environmental Advocates
Zak Shaw, DWC’s Nature Economy Project Lead, emphasized how the experience was tailored to the students’ aspirations:
“A conversation with Jane Brownie, Westland High School’s International Program Director and students, identified key learning outcomes. The students wanted to give back to nature and leave a positive impact, while comparing conservation methodologies in New Zealand with those in their home country of Germany.”
With a clear mission, the group embarked on a carefully curated experience filled with learning opportunities and hands-on involvement.
Immersing in Conservation Efforts
Learning from Local Experts
The group’s first stop was Whataroa, where they connected with Dion Arnold of White Heron Sanctuary Tours. Dion shared powerful insights into land use history in the region and how programs like Predator Free South Westland are making a tangible difference in boosting biodiversity. Students left with an understanding of how eliminating predators has helped protect critical species like the kotuku (White Heron) within the Waitangiroto Nature Reserve.
Giving Back Through Restoration Planting
Next, the group joined members of the Ōkārito Plant Project at the Purcell Reserve, a retired farmland area now repurposed for conservation efforts. They rolled up their sleeves and planted over 260 native plants in just three hours! Through this activity, the students directly contributed to supporting water quality and increasing biodiversity in the region—a perfect example of giving back to nature.
Tackling Predators and Understanding Innovation
The group also encountered innovative conservation approaches from Zero Invasive Predators (ZIP). They learned about ZIP’s cutting-edge methods for predator elimination, alongside the Native Carbon Initiative, which is researching the link between animal management and increased carbon storage in native forests. This gave the students a behind-the-scenes look at how science and technology can redefine conservation.
Kiwi Conservation and Kea Research
On their second day, the group explored conservation efforts with Department of Conservation Biodiversity Ranger Iain Graham and his specially trained Kiwi Conservation dog, Brew. Students were captivated by firsthand stories from Iain’s work on Operation Nest Egg, a kiwi recovery program, and his collaboration with the Kea Conservation Trust. Experiencing advanced conservation tech, like GPS harnesses for tracking and RFID microchip leg bands, made the innovative approaches feel tangible and real.
And there was a magical moment no one saw coming—the students spotted a Tawaki (Fiordland Crested Penguin) while trekking the 3 Mile Lagoon Track. Rare sightings like this are a testament to South Westland's incredible biodiversity.
Exploring the Ōkārito Lagoon
On the final day, Paula Sheridan and Swade Finch of Ōkārito Boat Tours guided the students across New Zealand’s largest unmodified wetland, the Ōkārito Lagoon. While surrounded by stunning scenery and wildlife, the students gained a deeper appreciation for the lagoon’s UNESCO World Heritage significance. For many, the boat tour cemented how vital preservation efforts are to safeguarding special places for future generations.
“In the moment, I realized how important it is to protect our special places in order for them to continue to exist," said Clara Stummeyer, one of the international students.
Cultivating Global Awareness
One of the most enriching aspects of the trip was the opportunity to compare New Zealand’s conservation methods to those in Germany. With reflection and facilitated discussions, students developed a greater appreciation for global differences and similarities in environmental preservation.
Jane Brownie of Westland High School perfectly captured the trip’s impact:
“The education of people both young and old is crucial if we are to gain traction on climate change and the survival of endemic species. Not only did students gain an awareness of how important it is to give back to nature, but we also had a really great time in the process. Westland High School is very grateful to DWC for this experience.”
Building a Brighter, Greener Future
The Okarito Plant Project’s collaboration with DWC highlights the importance of conservation efforts that go beyond ecological benefits—they also create meaningful personal connections with nature, foster education, and inspire a commitment to sustainability.
The students’ hands-on contributions and the expertise shared by local conservationists, like Iain Graham and ZIP, exemplify the power of collaboration. With projects like these, we’re not just preserving ecosystems; we’re creating a community of advocates who will carry lessons learned back to their own countries and inspire others to take action.
How You Can Help
Love what the Okarito Plant Project is doing? You can get involved in similar restoration work, support predator-free initiatives, or simply spread the word about the importance of biodiversity. Every small action you take contributes to the bigger picture of preservation.
Together, we can ensure experiences like these continue for future generations. To learn more about upcoming conservation projects and how you can participate, connect with us here or follow the Okarito Plant Project on social media for updates.
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