Ōtātara Outdoor Learning Centre

02/02/2026

02/02/2026

Those passionate about protecting the environment will soon be able to study a new suite of Environmental Studies programmes at EIT, following NZQA approval for the qualifications to begin in...

02/02/2026

Jess is one of our final-year degree students undertaking her research project. Below is Jess’s statement, along with the Survey Link : https://arcg.is/059i090
Briefly, Jess’s research aims to identify the main human activities that cause damage to Banded Dotterel habitats around Napier. I am writing to kindly ask if you would be willing to complete this survey. By hearing from a broader cross-section of the community, we will be able to obtain more representative data and reach stronger, more robust conclusions.

This is Jess’s request
Kia Ora, my name is Jess and I’m in my final year of a Bachelor of Environmental Studies at EIT. As part of my research, I’m investigating how suitable our local coastal areas and shingle beaches are as habitat for the native Pohowera (Banded Dotterel). Pohowera are a nationally vulnerable species, facing increasing pressures from predators and human activity. To support this research, I’ve created a short survey to learn more about how people use shingle beaches and coastal spaces around Napier and Hawke’s Bay. The questionnaire asks about your most frequently visited coastal spot and the types of activities you enjoy there. You’re welcome to complete it more than once if you visit multiple locations. Your input will also help gauge public views on how we balance recreation with protecting our wildlife. Thank you for your time and input.
Survey Link : https://arcg.is/059i090

Image credit: F. Voronesi

18/11/2025

Running this awesome programme again in 2026. FEES free - get in quick!

07/11/2025

Level 5 Environmental Studies students enjoyed a fantastic field trip earlier this week as part of the Introduction to Earth Systems Science course.
They visited the Ngaruroro River to explore the forces and processes that have shaped the Hawke’s Bay landscape, and to learn about the diverse soil types found throughout the region. A great day of hands-on learning in the field! If you are interested in environmental studies check out our website.

05/07/2025

Bachelor of Applied Science (Biodiversity Management) student Emily Strong helped iwi identify remnants of the historic Seventy Mile Bush during a summer internship with Sustainable Hawke’s...

09/04/2025

Some really fantastic learning and activities happening with our kaitiakitanga ākonga!

09/04/2025

Great to be part of this event and to see our lovely Bachelor of Applied Science graduate Aimey hosting one of the workshops!

18/03/2025

May be of interest to some. Meaningful kaupapa for those interested in environmental preservation. Enrol now, starts soon!

18/03/2025

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1HG9gsCgsA/?mibextid=wwXIfr

04/02/2025

Check out our new programme and share with interested parties …

Kaitiakitanga - Protect our environment!

Conservation education is a key focus with this NEW programme.

Comprised of practical, hands-on training alongside classroom-based learning, you will visit local conservation sites and learn from environmental experts and relevant guest speakers. Take part in the planning and implementation of environmental projects at Ōtātara Outdoor Learning Centre and the Gully and practice your newly acquired skills in a workplace environment.

This 32 week programme is a combination of the EIT NZ Certificate in Primary Industry Skills [Level 2] (60 credit) and NZ Certificate in Primary Industry Operational Skills [Level 3] (60 credit) programmes.

Enrol now – start March 2025
For more information contact Deborah Comrie phone 06 830 1376 or email [email protected]