Free virtual field trip takes students to Central Otago to explore the science of landslides
Teachers across Aotearoa are invited to take their students on a virtual journey through Central Otago's remarkable landscapes this August, where they'll meet scientists and engineers and discover how landslides have shaped the region - and what they're teaching us about living with natural hazards.
Funded by the Natural Hazards Commission Toka Tū Ake (NHC), the free LEARNZ virtual field trip, On Unstable Ground, gives Years 5–10 students front-row access to one of New Zealand's most fascinating natural classrooms, without leaving school.
Students will travel virtually through Central Otago, exploring spectacular landscapes while learning why landslides occur, how they shape the environment, and how scientists, engineers and local communities work together to better understand and manage the risks they pose.
This year's field trip focuses on Central Otago's unique geology and landscapes, using them as a living classroom to explore landslides, their causes and impacts, and the technologies and research helping improve our understanding of them.
LEARNZ Project Manager Clive Francis says virtual field trips make places and expertise accessible to every classroom, regardless of where students live.
“LEARNZ helps students access what is usually inaccessible. Online field trips require no permission slips or buses. By getting alongside local experts, students can discover amazing places, and find out about the people, environment, technology and science that shape them. Our experts also showcase their interesting jobs, bringing different career possibilities to life for rangatahi.”
The interactive programme includes virtual field trips, videos, live web conferences with experts and curriculum-aligned classroom resources, giving students the opportunity to ask questions, investigate real-world challenges and see science in action.
Natural Hazards Commission Public Education Manager Hamish Armstrong says the programme is about more than learning how landslides happen.
“Natural hazards are part of life in Aotearoa, and with landslides becoming an increasing challenge for communities due to factors like extreme rainfall and a changing climate, helping young people understand them is one of the best investments we can make in New Zealand's future resilience.
“LEARNZ gives students the chance to connect what they're learning in the classroom with the real world. They can explore incredible landscapes, hear directly from the people studying them, and see how science helps us better understand the natural hazards we live with.”
Hamish says programmes like LEARNZ help build confidence and curiosity while encouraging students to think critically about the places where they live.
“Whether students become scientists, engineers or simply informed members of their communities, understanding our natural environment helps them make better decisions throughout their lives.
“We hope they'll come away inspired by New Zealand's unique landscapes and with a greater appreciation of the role science plays in helping communities prepare for natural hazards.”
The On Unstable Ground virtual field trip runs from 17 August 2026 and is free for schools throughout New Zealand.
Teachers can register and access classroom resources: