Eye-opening event blooms again at Botanic Gardens

Build a bird feeder, muddle your way through a maze and find your footing in a forest – Aucklanders are in for a day as diverse as the environment they inhabit…

Thousands of school children and families are expected to flock to the Auckland Botanic Gardens for a unique environment expo at the end of March.

Environmental organisations from around New Zealand are partnering with the Manukau Beautification Charitable Trust to hostEye on Nature following the success of 2014’s event, which attracted over 8000 visitors.

This year’s focus is on ‘Adaptation – the Art of Survival’ and highlights how plants and animals have adapted to survive as a consequence of mankind’s environmental impact.

With a Wearable Arts Fashion Parade featuring designs by high school students, a school cooking competition that would make even a master chef take note, and hands-on activities for all ages, the free Family Day on Saturday 28 March is open to the general public from across Auckland.

Graeme Bakker, Manukau Beautification Charitable Trust GM, says this year’s event ticks all the boxes as a fun, hands-on experience for the whole family, underpinned by valuable environmental learnings.

“Through Eye on Nature we want to teach kids and their parents about ways they can engage positively in ongoing environmental activities, from learning how to grow your own microgreens and worm farms to appreciating the value of our honey bees and butterflies. This year’s event is not to be missed,” says Mr Bakker.

Bush walks, craft activities, a cave, archaeology sand pit, music and environmental education programmes are on offer again this year, covering issues ranging from ‘Kauri Die-back’ to pest control and sustainability.

"Sustainable Coastlines is very pleased to be project partners for such a prestigious event. The opportunity to run educational sessions with so many school students during the week in an enjoyable and interactive way fits so well with our approach towards making education fun, tangible and outcome-focussed.

“Students will be taking the theme of adaptation a step further by coming up with their own ideas around how humans themselves will need to adapt to counter the challenges faced by marine life. We're also looking forward to interacting with the general publicon Saturday, where we will have our popular puzzle and chocolate fishing games there for all to enjoy!" says Ryley Webster, Community Education Manager – Sustainable Coastlines.

The event is part of a week-long initiative to introduce children and families to some of the most pertinent and topical environmental issues facing New Zealand communities.

1500 Year 5 and 6 students will visit the Gardens throughout the week leading up to the Family Day, taking part in educational games and arts and crafts, before going on a Bio-diversity Trail through the Totara Forest with both Botanic Garden and Auckland Council staff.

Last year’s Eye on Nature won the prestigious highly commended prize at the 2014 New Zealand Association of Event Professionals Awards, and organisers are hopeful 2015 will be equally well-received.

“We encourage all Aucklanders to come along and enjoy what’s on offer at this year’s Eye on Nature. It’s not just a South Auckland event this is something everyone in the region can bring their family to and enjoy a fabulous day out,” says Graeme Bakker.

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