School Visits
A visit to Tiritiri Matangi gives children the chance to take a trip back in time when our forests were full to bursting with birds.
The ‘deafening birdsong’ that was experienced by Captain Cook’s crewmate and naturalist Joseph Banks in 1769 is a feature that strikes many visitors to Tiritiri Matangi.
The abundance of creatures large and small allows children the chance to learn firsthand about the country early explorers first encountered.
To return the island to this pest-free forested state after years of farming took vision, spadework and a large community effort that has since been replicated on island and mainland sanctuaries throughout the country.
Our island guides enrich any school visit by identifying wildlife, birdsong and giving school groups an insight into the work done to protect this island. It is best to book early to ensure your spot!
Education programmes
To enjoy a fuller experience, it is recommended that schools book one of the education programmes. There are two streams for pupils:
Our educators have an in-depth understanding of the science curriculum and are able to offer a range of educational experiences closely tied to the curriculum.
Plan Your Trip
A typical day on the motu starts with a guided walk through native forest with close up encounters with birdlife. After a break for lunch the afternoon activities are of the school’s choosing – whether that be an educational talk and scavenger hunt for younger students or an in-depth programme for senior students. Take a look at our day programme to see what a typical visit to Tiritiri Matangi includes.
Booking numbers per trip:
- Y0-2= 30 students Y3-4 = 55 students Y5-13 = 65 students
- A maximum of 75 students per trip may be negotiated by TICs familiar with Tiritiri Matangi
- A maximum of 50 students for First Time school visits
- A minimum of 1:8 adult to student ratio for guided walk
Resources
Book your Trip
We believe that every child in New Zealand should get the chance to experience our wonderful natural environment and see how communities can help to conserve it, so all schools receive discounted rates.
Thanks to support from the Tiritiri Matangi Supporters and Explore, the fare from either Auckland or Gulf Harbour is $25.00 per student, and one accompanying adult for every six students travels free. Those schools wanting to bring extra adults pay $37.50 per adult.
The charge for the guided walk on the island is just $2.00 per student (no charge for accompanying adults). The fee for the guided walk is payable on the island on the day of your visit.
Please note: these special rates apply only for visits on school days during the school term.
