Coastal processes, sand dune restoration project during field trip with Learning Journeys.
Coast Care's dune rehabilitation project by planting or weeding.
Sand dune rehabilitation project with Learning Journeys during school group tour.
Coastal processes data collection. Geography field trip with Learning Journeys, New Zealand
Data collection, sand dune restoration project during NZ study tour.

Coasts

There is no location in New Zealand that is more than 130 km from the sea. It has a very long coastline with estimates ranging from 15,000 to 18,000 km. The exact length is obscured by the countless twists and turns around inlets, headlands, spits, bays, harbours, fiords, sounds and estuaries. Although the North Island is smaller than the South Island, its coastline is longer.

The coastline is always changing. Cliffs, constantly lashed by wind and rain, may be hollowed into caves, arches and pillars, then topple into the sea. Sandy shores may lose their sand to the waves, or the waves may bring even more sand to them. With global warming already raising sea levels, understanding how coastlines are shaped and the value of dunes in providing protection from storm surges (not to mention tsunamis) is increasingly important.

Choice of activities

  • Hike up to vantage point like Mt Maunganui for an overview of coastal landforms and patterns of land use.
  • Discuss coastal processes and the dynamic nature of coastlines.
  • Discuss natural hazards associated with the coastline, human impacts, management of erosion and the views of different stake holders.
  • Examine and discuss the value of soft and hard engineering structures
  • Collect data coastal profile, vegetation transects, velocity of longshore drift, comparing different stretches of coastline.
  • Contribute to Coast Care's dune rehabilitation project by planting or weeding.

New Zealand Certificate of Educational Achievement

Geography
  • AS91244 2.5 Conduct geographic research with guidance
  • AS91430 3.5 Conduct geographic research with consultation.
Earth Science
  • AS90952 1.13 Demonstrate understanding of the formation of surface features in New Zealand
Living World
  • AS91155 2.3 Demonstrate understanding of adaptation of plants or animals to their way of life.
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Tour Length
1 day
Who
Years 11
Where
Tauranga, Waihi Beach, Muriwai, Piha
Trip dates
By arrangement
Free teacher
For every 10 paying students
Minimum group size
10 Students
Price for 35+ students
From $47 incl. GST
Price
Valid until 
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Thank you again for another fantastic learning experience for the level 2 biology students! All had a great time and really enjoyed all the opportunities that you were able to give them on the trip.

Western Springs College, New Zealand

Thank you so much again for a wonderful field visit, myself and the students had an excellent time. They all thought you were so lovely and knowledgeable.

ACG Strathallan