Workshop series
Workshop series
Mauri Atu Taiao
Dive into four hands-on workshops—Water, Micro-organisms, Plants, and Animals—to explore sustainability through environmental, economic, and social lenses.
Workshop 1: Water
Explore water quality and why clean water matters for ecosystems. Learn about pH levels, pollution, and hands-on testing techniques. See how tiny changes can make huge waves in keeping rivers, lakes, and oceans healthy.
Competitions
Get into our “Clean Water Challenge” competition—design a poster or video that shows how we can stop pollution at the source. Winners get featured on our website and a special Pat the Bat badge!
Feedback
Have questions or suggestions about Workshop 1?
Workshop 2: Micro-organisms
Discover the “little guys” that keep our world ticking. Learn how bacteria and fungi filter water, break down waste, and support healthy soils. You’ll see microbes through microscopes and run experiments to understand their vital roles.
Competitions
Enter the “Micro-World Explorer” contest—take a photo of your own micro-organism slide, label what you see, and explain why it’s important. Top entries will receive a Pat the Bat microscope kit!
Feedback
Got microbial mysteries or curious observations?
Workshop 3: Plants
Dig into the world of plants: from native ferns to fruit trees. Learn how plants purify the air, support ecosystems, and provide resources. You’ll plant seedlings, measure growth rates, and understand photosynthesis in a fun, hands-on way.
Competitions
Join our “Plant Portrait” competition—draw or photograph a native plant and share why it’s precious to Aotearoa. Winners get a Pat the Bat seed pack and their artwork featured online!
Feedback
Any green-thumb questions or tips?
Workshop 4: Animals
Take flight into the animal kingdom—meet native birds, insects, and mammals that call New Zealand home. Learn about habitat, food chains, and conservation efforts. Through games and field trips, you’ll discover how every creature plays a part.
Competitions
Enter the “Creature Conservation” contest—create a short video or diorama highlighting an endangered species and suggest how we can protect it. Winners receive a Pat the Bat wildlife pack!
Feedback
Spotted something cool during Workshop 4?