Making a splash on Auckland’s waterways

A South Auckland school’s science studies are echoing the theme of an annual environmental programme this year.

Dawson Primary School in Otara is participating in the environmental education programme ‘Eye on Nature’ which culminates in a family day held today at the Auckland Botanic Gardens in Manurewa.

This year’s theme ‘Water for Life – Cool, Clear, Clean’ particularly resonated with the students from the school, said lead teacher in science, technology and environmental education, Deborah Davies.

“Our science focus has been on conservation and sustainability on our New Zealand waters. It was coincidental that it tied in with the focus of the Eye on Nature programme this year,” she said.

Students have been working on their costumes since the end of last year to compete in a wearable arts competition which showcases their creations at tomorrow’s event.

Year 6 student, Sativa-Lee Deer, is excited to represent her school.

10-year-old Deer said she had been working for a month on her mermaid costume that was inspired by her love for mermaid movies.

The event is hosted by the Manukau Beautification Charitable Trust, together with 24 environmental partners, and is sponsored by six local boards and the Auckland Botanic Gardens.

Manukau Beautification Charitable Trust relationship manager, Barbara Carney, said the event is reaching young people and connecting them with nature and science, as they are our “future guardians of the planet.”

“The vision of the event is to plant a seed, grow a young mind, and engage positively in ongoing environmental programmes,” she said.

Eye on Nature kicked off a week early at schools, engaging with 1500 primary school children from South Auckland.

Throughout the week, schools were educated about the significance of sea life and handling fish.

Legasea, a public outreach initiative of the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council, have been holding workshops for children to learn the importance of fisheries as part of the programme.

Corporate relations and funding director, Simon Yates, said it is important children learn how to respectfully handle fish to reduce wastage.

“We’ve fished 80 per cent of the fish out of the water and only 20 per cent or less exist now,” said Mr Yates.

“We teach them to respectfully handle the fish and put it back so it has every chance of living.”

The Eye on Nature free environmental event will feature interactive workshops and activities for families at the Auckland Botanic Gardens in Manurewa today from 11am-8pm.