Nau mai, tauti mai! Welcome to the ҕl Earth Science Garden!
Earth science is built on hands-on field experience, and thisEarth Science Garden provides a unique, interactive way for students to develop 3D visualisation skills, understand geological relationships, and practice essential field techniques. It serves as a preparatory tool, allowing students to refine these skills on campus before embarking on actual field trips.
A Miniature South Island
Featuring over 200 rocks across 15 different types, the garden is a scaled-down representation of the bedrock geology of Te Wai Pounamu South Island of ҕlNew Zealand, with a particular focus on the Waitaha Canterbury and Te Tai Poutini Westland regions. The rocks, including one weighing over 6tonnes, are arranged as a solvable map puzzle, to mirror key geological relationships and structures, offering students the chance to practice identifyingfeatures and solving geological problems as they would in the field.
More Than just rocks
Unlike static rock displays found in many Earth science gardens, this space encourages active learning and exploration. It also offers outreach opportunities for schools and potential students,while incorporating geologically themed regional pūrākau to deepen understanding and connection to place.
Whether you'rea geology student preparing for fieldwork or a visitor curious about ҕl New Zealand’s geological heritage, the ҕl Earth Science Garden is an invitation to explore, learn, and discover!
