Eco Centre Education Topics
We have education programmes across the following topics
Waste Minimisation
“You make a difference” – is the key message we deliver in a fun and informative way. Learn more about renewable, and non-renewable resources, what is waste, and what can we do locally to have an impact globally? View videos of the operations around the Resource Recovery Park and consider how waste products can be viewed as resources. Flexible lesson plans for all ages.
Presenter: Corrie Andrews from Enviro NZ
Crows Nest Visit
Why buy second hand? What are the benefits for the planet and the tamariki? It involves a treasure hunt at the Crows Nest, inviting them to explore the wide range of items available second hand.
Presenter: Alice Brice from Eco centre
Predator Free
Why is it important to remove predators? What predators does Predator Free 2050 focus on? What are we trying to protect? We look at at different traps and trap safety. Together let’s save the birds, lizards, insects and bats.
Presenter: Alice Brice from Eco Centre
Stormwater
Have you thought about where the water goes when you unplug the tub after a bath? What about the doggy-doo you see washing down a storm water drain on a rainy day? Discover the fascinating wastewater journey in our district and the impact it has on the environment. End the session with a fun treasure hunt and learn more about the NTF pond just outside the Eco Centre.
Presenter: Corrie Andrews from Enviro NZ
Citizen Science
Students become part of a bigger picture by contributing to real scientific knowledge. They experience the iNaturalist app and get hands-on with nature, while learning how their observations help protect the environment.
Presenter: Alice Brice from Eco Centre
Native Plants
Discover why native plants are vital for healthy ecosystems, thriving wildlife, and resilient landscapes. Students can explore how natives adapt to Aotearoa’s unique environments, learn how to identify common species, and understand their cultural significance.
Presenter: Alice Brice from Eco Centre
Composting & Worm Farming
What happens to food scraps when they don’t go in the bin? Learn how composting and worm farming turn “waste” into living soil. Students get up close with a working worm farm, understand the science of decomposition, and explore simple actions they can take at school or home to reduce organic waste. A practical, fun, and slightly wiggly session!
Presenter: Briony Woodnorth from Enviro NZ
Climate Change
Climate change can feel big—but understanding it empowers tamariki to take action. This session explores the science behind a warming planet, local impacts, and everyday changes that make a real difference. Interactive activities help students connect global challenges with local solutions.
Presenter: Alice Brice from Eco Centre
Waste Free Periods
Waste-free period education empowers young people to manage menstruation sustainably, confidently, and without shame. By introducing reusable options like menstrual cups, cloth pads, and period underwear, we equip teens with practical knowledge about their bodies and sustainable period care, fostering informed choices and a healthier planet.
Presenter: Alice Brice from Eco Centre
Raptor Experience
Learn about the lives of our native raptor birds, their ways of hunting, what they feed on, dangers to their safety and their cultural significance. Ron will bring along a feathered friend. Koha appreciated.
Presenter: Ron Lindsay from Rapter Trust
Enviroschools
We coordinate with local ECan Enviroschools Advisor Debbie Eddington to make a programme for your students. Debbie has a wide knowledge of our environment and innovative presentation skills.
Presenter: Debbie Eddington from Enviroschools
Create your Day
Bring your class or school year group to spend a day at the Eco Centre. Mix and match with your own presenters or activities depending on the topics you are exploring – don’t forget there’s also outdoor seating for lunch and plenty of surrounding lawn for activities.
Designed by your school
Local Attractions – what can my school do?
A short walk from the Eco Centre is the Otipua Wetlands, a stone beach, Redruth Park, and Timaru Cemetery. These are options for nature study, beach cleanup, walks, and beach craft activities.
Designed by your school
Frequently Asked Questions
The Eco Centre has a classroom space that fits 50 people on chairs. It has a smartboard, Wifi and pop up tables, that are easy to move. There is an indoor break out / second teaching space and an outdoor table area.
The Eco Centre has easy access for a bus to drive through and park. It has wheelchair access and an accessible toilet.
We have a small kitchen with a oven, urn, fridge freezer and most things you need to serve a meal. We also have a BBQ for hire.
Please note groups have to take their rubbish home.
If the Eco Centre staff are hosting your school group it is free or a koha. You are welcome to hire the venue as a school at the Not for Profit rate of $20 an hour.