Kaitiaki Trip to Kaiwharawhara Stream

This morning, we have been cleaning up the school and learning how to be a good kaitiaki to our school. This was a chance to see ways that we can help be good kaitiaki to water areas. 

While we were there, Gemma and Kate (our Conservation Volunteers) taught us about the life cycle of the longfin eels (tuna) and how special they are. They are endemic to New Zealand, which means they are only found here. 

Kate dug up a 30cm square of dirt and we looked through it using magnifying glasses, looking for creatures kiwi might eat. There were some interesting larvae, worms, and a jumping spider. Sadly, not enough for kiwi yet. 

Kate and Gemma also got some of the stream bottom to look for water creatures. We had a list to look for and we found quite a few species. They were invertebrates meaning they have no spine.

We also looked at the water quality and noticed what helps it, like the trees along the bank giving shade. We learned if there were lots of diverse creatures, it was good water, so the water in the stream was good. 

There were a few interesting things to look at and activities to do. It was a great learning experience and helped us to know why it’s good to be kaitiaki and clean up rubbish!

By: Tilomai, Frankie, Violet and Jackson.