Field Trip

Conference Field Trips

All field trips depart from Transport World at 1:30pm and return to transport World by 5pm via bus. Afternoon Tea will be provided.

1. Waituna Lagoon Road Trip

Enjoy a trip to the Waituna Lagoon, one of the best remaining examples of a natural coastal lagoon in New Zealand and discover the environmental challenges this Ramsar site faced from land use changes and the subsequent restoration successes with a multi-disciplinary approach. For the ornithologists, November will be the middle of bird breeding season and this unique coastal lagoon is home to many nationally and internationally important avifauna. A local expert will provide a guided walk and talk at the site.   

2. Journey to Aotearoa's End

Travel to Bluff and visit South Port NZ Ltd, New Zealand’s southern-most commercial deep-water port, to discuss coastal processes, dredge disposal and port operations during a guided bus tour of Island Harbour. Then experience a cultural welcome at the world’s southern-most marae, Te Rau Aroha Marae. Local cultural speakers will kōrero about their whānau tītī island heritage over a cuppa and some kai, before heading to Bluff Hill for some spectacular scenery and chance to view and discuss the restoration successes with the Motupōhue Trust. And of course, no trip to Bluff is complete without a quick photo opportunity at Stirling Point, the southern-most point of mainland New Zealand.

3. Keeping it Local and Getting Amongst it

Explore the local New River Estuary with expert scientist, Nick Ward, then head out to Bushy Point nature reserve where you will have the opportunity to get your gumboots on for a little restoration planting with the local Otatara Landcare Group and Southland Community Nursery. An optional stop for a cuppa at the Cabbage Tree will see you right for the grand finale at the iconic ‘World’s Fastest Indian’ Oreti Beach for a unique chance to try your hand at Toheroa digging and perhaps a swim – for the brave?!