learn about the natural world

Overview

There’s no better way for students to learn about the natural world around them than to experience it first-hand. With Fullers and 360 Discovery Cruises you have the opportunity to get your students out of the classroom and make this a reality.

A range of day trips to destinations across the Hauraki Gulf can be tailored to fit your school’s curriculum – including wildlife encounters, conservation studies and more.

Rangitoto Island

Sitting majestically just off the Auckland coast, this unique volcanic island boasts a fascinating landscape of rugged lava crops, lush native bush and sandy coves. Rangitoto Island is a public scenic reserve managed by the Department of Conservation (in partnership with the 'tangata whenua' Ngāi Tai and Ngāti Paoa).

Education Level:

• Primary
• Intermediate
• Secondary & Tertiary Students

Learning Focuses:

• Learning about the island’s geology, ecology and history
• Walks to the summit to see 360 degree views of Auckland and the Hauraki Gulf
• Exploring the native forest, which features an establishment of over 250 species of native trees and plants, including ferns and orchids, and the largest pohutukawa forest in New Zealand
• Visit the historic baches which show the continuity and change of a community over time

Availability & Booking: Bookings are essential. Special rates apply only for visits on school days during the school term. For rates, sailing times and more information please contact us by emailing charters@fullers.co.nz

Tiritiri Matangi Island

Tiritiri Matangi open sanctuary island is one of New Zealand’s most successful conservation projects, offering up-close and personal wildlife encounters with endangered birds and rare wildlife. 

The Supporters of Tiritiri Matangi offer a range of comprehensive educational programmes that can be tailored to your school’s curriculum. Guided walks provide expert commentary and lend context to both animal life and the historical and archaeological features of the island.

Education Level:

• Primary
• Intermediate
• Secondary & Tertiary Students

Learning Focuses:

• Encounters with rare and endangered bird species, and a chance to experience the environment as it was back in the day
• Optional guided walk (1.5 hours) covering the island’s history and identification of species by sight and sound
• Maori pa remnants at the island’s northern end
• Visitor’s centre with informative displays

Rates:

• Ferry fare - $22.50 per student, from Auckland or Gulf Harbour. One accompanying adult for every six students travels free. $37.50 per additional adult

The Growing Minds programme: Offers funding for visits by lower decile schools (deciles 1-6). Learn more here.

Availability & Booking: Bookings are essential. Special rates apply only for visits on school days during the school term. For rates, sailing times and more information please contact us by emailing charters@fullers.co.nz

Motuihe Island

Motuihe Island is rich with native flora and rare and endangered birdlife thanks to the restoration efforts of the Motuihe Trust and Department of Conservation. Guided nature and heritage tours can be a focus of your school trip to the island.

Education Level:

• Primary
• Intermediate
• Secondary & Tertiary Students

Learning Focuses:

• Learning about the island’s history of Maori and European influences
• Exploring remnants of pa sites and European farming settlements, prisoner of war camps and old naval base ruins
• Bird and plant life observations
• Organised tree plantings and other conservation activities

Availability & Booking: Bookings are essential. Special rates apply only for visits on school days during the school term. For rates, sailing times and more information please contact us by emailing charters@fullers.co.nz