The weather gods were kind. Forecast heavy rain, thunder and lightning held off until the investigative geographers were on the bus and on their way home from a two-day overnight field trip to the Waitomo Region earlier this month.
Waitomo and its limestone landscapes were the reason for the field trip. Waitomo is just over two hours south of Auckland, making it easily accessible without an overly long drive. This enables us to go and see the features we have been studying in Term 4 as part of “Fizzy rock and adventure landscapes”, a unit of work that examines limestone landscapes, their formation, features and uses.
For many students, the Marakopa Falls were a highlight. The falls looked stunning. Being able to spend time just watching and listening to them while surrounded by trees in a calm environment, was very much appreciated. The collapsed cave system that forms the Natural Bridge, a 17m high limestone arch, also drew murmurs of appreciation.
The guided tour of Waitomo Glow Worm Caves was another high point in the field trip. Amazingly, 40 Year 10 students were able to remain silent for several minutes as we drifted through the glow worm cave in a boat.
Not all the time was spent working. The geographers were able to choose where and what they had for dinner in Otorohanga. At our accommodation, Waitomo Village Chalets, once it was dark, many played spotlight, card games or just sat and talked until bedtime.
A comment many of the students made after we returned to school, was the value of actually seeing in person, what we had been learning about. It underscores the value of getting out of the classroom and undertaking field work.
The Waitomo field trip would not have been possible without the help of additional staff. We very much appreciated Mrs Saunders, Mr Taylor and Mrs Walters giving up their time to join us.
~ Miss S Brodie, HoD Geography