A day in Riccarton Bush and Downtown Christchurch

 We started off the day with a presentation from Dr. Colin Meurk (local Kiwi and expert botanist) about the natural and cultural patterns of Canterbury. The class learned about the various habitats of New Zealand and the broad bioclimatic zones which make it so unique. We also learned about the astonishing biodiversity of the area and the surprising adaptations to an ecosystem without mammals (including giant insects that can take on the role of small mammals!) The class discussed the many ways to connect people and nature, one of the most important parts of restoration projects and learned about the three thresholds of ecological restoration. 

Learning all about the ecology of Aotearoa

After the lecture, the class traveled to Riccarton Bush where we explored a predator-free forest with a guided tour by Colin. The class learned about the importance of predator-free fences to keep out introduced mammalian predators like possums, stoats, hedgehogs, and rats. Delving into the forest, we discovered ancient podocarps and saw many new plants like Rohutu, Poataniwha, Khikatea, and Mikimiki. The class got to touch, smell, and even taste several plant species that are endemic to New Zealand. 

Taking a walk in Riccarton Bush 

Learning about Podocarps and other native trees

Several invasive mammal predators that threaten native ecosystems

We found orange mushrooms!

A picnic lunch at Riccarton Bush

After a picnic lunch, the class traveled to downtown Christchurch. In downtown, we admired the street art,  and architecture at the public library, wandered around the library, and played at the fabulous Margaret Mahy Family Playground (where we met some very friendly black swans.) The class also visited the famous Christchurch cathedral and had tea time at a local coffee shop. Everyone loved the visit to downtown and is looking forward to coming back. 

Group photo in front of street art in downtown

Reading about Christchurch cathedral 

new library architecture 

At the playground

Our new friend 

Nico and Ryan with some city sheep

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Tea and busses at local coffeeshop



In the evening we got to go to a Matariki celebration. The celebration honors the start of the Mauri new year and celebrates the appearance of the Matariki star cluster which consists of nine stars. The class got to see a song performance retelling the story of the Matariki as well as a fire dance performance which we were all impressed by. 

                                         Watching the fire performance at the Matariki celebration

Its been a busy day full of learning and fun. We can't wait to see what tomorrow will bring. 

- Charisse