Kohuora Park Schools Nature Day

Young Scientists in Action

On Friday 2 May, over 120 students and teachers from 10 South Auckland kura gathered at Kohuora Park for a day of discovery, learning, and environmental action.

This special event brought together schools from across the Puhinui catchment — from kindergartens to colleges — to explore and record the biodiversity of Kohuora Park, a rare volcanic wetland nestled in the heart of Papatoetoe.

Guided by leading scientists including entomologist Ruud Kleinpaste and fungi expert Dr Peter Buchanan, students rotated through hands-on science stations focused on insects, fungi, trees, birds, water quality, and pest species. Using tools like eDNA kits, iNaturalist, and Waicare resources, they became citizen scientists for the day — gathering valuable data to help understand and protect this unique ecosystem.

Ngāti Tahinga Wilson of Ngati Te Ahiwaru gave a warm welcome, sharing kōrero about the history of the park and its connection to both harbours as a traditional portage site. Throughout the day, students were also supported by Mātātahi Taiao and Auckland Council Rangatahi Advisors, who brought powerful insights through Mātauranga Māori, helping to weave cultural knowledge into the scientific exploration.

With support from local educators, community partners, and science facilitators, tamariki not only deepened their knowledge of te taiao but also learned new kupu and strengthened their connection to place.

The energy was inspiring — students left with muddy shoes, full data sheets, and a renewed sense of responsibility for the environment around them.

Thank you to all the schools who took part:

• Aorere Kindergarten
• Papatoetoe West School
• Papatoetoe South School
• Papatoetoe North School
• Papatoetoe East School
• Papatoetoe Intermediate
• Kedgley Intermediate
• Papatoetoe High School
• Aorere College
• Tangaroa College

A huge thanks also to all the iwi, educators, scientists, whānau, partners, Rangatahi Advisor’s, Mātātahi Taiao and Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board who made the day possible.