Environmental Education

Education about, for and in the environment is an integral part of the outdoor and "adventure based" learning programmes at Peel Forest OPC. We are now offering a series of environmental education activities to enable groups to have a more direct interaction with and understanding of the natural environment in Peel Forest.

Environmental Activities

PFOPC's programmes offer specific learning outcomes delivered by highly qualified and experienced outdoor professionals. We have been in operation for more than 15 years and are leaders in the field of environmental and outdoor education. Emphasis is on a "hands-on" practical approach with activities focusing on:

Plant Identification

Learn to identify common native plants and discover their uses by both Maori and Pakeha.

The Forest Environment

Explore the Peel Forest environment and discover how human beings have changed it over the years. Look at how the different elements of the forest are dependent upon each other to grow and thrive.

Plant Pest Control

Learn how the forest has been changed by the introduction of different pest plants. Take part in the removal of pest plants and help to regenerate the forest with native plants.

Banquet from the Bush

Find out about different types of edible plants in the NZ bush. Use some of them as ingredients to put together a simple meal, which will change with the seasons.

“The Raukapuka Area Office of the Department of Conservation is very pleased to be able to commend and support the endeavors of the Peel Forest Outdoor Pursuits Charitable Trust in promoting conservation ideals at Peel Forest. The relationship that has developed between DOC and the Trust has been most beneficial in advancing the conservation of our natural heritage in the area. This is reflected in the way that school groups and members of the public visit the Peel Forest Outdoor Pursuits Centre seeking information on conservation matters. Making this information available at a local, high profile site is particularly valuable to the Department.”

— Adrian Cogle, Programme Manager – Community Relations, DOC, Geraldine

“Many thanks for such a great session with the BRM students. From the beginning you had them involved and interested. While you covered all the crucial points that I could have hoped you might, you also kept them following all you said. Your professionalism was clear in the variety and your credibility was very high.

“So thanks again for the icebreaker, the wonderful slides and all the wisdom!”

— Alison Kuiper, Lecturer, Human Sciences Division, Lincoln University