Canvastown School – Native Planting & Web of Life Learning
Planting day
Canvastown School took powerful action for te taiao this term, planting 140 native trees and grasses — including mānuka, toetoe, carex, karamū, and harakeke — along the bank that leads to their bottom field. This area borders a stream that flows directly into their local awa, Te Hoiere. The planting was designed to stabilise the soil and reduce erosion, improving water quality downstream.
Ready for planting
Before and after planting, tamariki explored the Enviroschools “Web of Life” activity, learning about the interconnectedness of all living things. Through this, they discovered how their planting supports the birds, insects, soil life, and water — and even contributes to cleaner air and healthier people. The activity helped them see their mahi as part of a living system. It reinforced the values of kaitiakitanga and collective care.
So many helpers make for quick work
The day was a true community effort, with a fantastic turnout of parents and local helpers. A huge mihi to the Te Hoiere Project for funding the native plants — their support made this restoration possible. It also helped tamariki take meaningful, hands‑on action for their local environment.
This project has strengthened Canvastown School’s connection to their whenua and awa, showing how learning, community, and environmental action can weave together beautifully.