Enviroschools celebration 2025: Canterbury students lead the way in sustainability and action

Last week, 18 kura gathered at our Tuam Street office to showcase the sustainability projects they developed through the Enviroschools Programme in 2025.

Each school focused on a project unique to its local environment, supported by our outh and Engagement, Education and Enviroschools team.

Students from Christchurch City, Selwyn, Waimakariri, and South Canterbury transformed the ground floor of our office into a vibrant exhibition space. Their displays highlighted hands-on learning, innovation, and a strong sense of kaitiakitanga.

The variety was huge—from Te Kura o Huriawa Thorrington’s leafcutter bee project to Ladbrooks School’s seedlings and St Margaret’s Preschool’s interactive recycling station. Councillors and staff were impressed by the energy and creativity the tamariki brought to the day.

Fairlie students impress with wilding pine know-how

One display that caught the attention of our biosecurity team came from St Joseph’s School in Fairlie.

Living in the Mackenzie District, St Joseph’s students are surrounded by wilding pines, which have a significant impact on native ecosystems, pose a fire hazard, and can reduce water availability.

With support from the Enviroschools Action Fund, the school transformed part of its grounds into a sensory space and outdoor classroom, complete with student-designed edible and sensory gardens and chicken coops to enhance learning and wellbeing.

Ten-year-old Frank Anderson explained how the programme has shaped his actions:

“When I’m out and about and see young wilding pines, I pull them out based on what I’ve learned from Enviroschools,” said Frank.

Wilding Conifer Delivery Lead Robin Pieper was impressed by their knowledge and commitment:

“It was great to hear from the St Joseph’s pupils about their keen interest in the wilding pine problem. They were knowledgeable, could identify different species, and understood their impact.

They were proud to share how they’re involved in wilding pine control on their own farms and in their lives.”

No age limit on learning and action

At Peppertree Preschool, tamariki love visiting nearby Northbrook Reserve to feed and watch the tuna/eels. But when a storm last year toppled pine trees, the eel habitat was damaged.

Determined to help, the children sprang into action. With support from their Enviroschools facilitator, they planted native trees to restore shade and create a healthy environment for the eels. Now, they’re working on a sign to teach visitors how to protect this special spot.

Their display at the celebration was a hit—complete with a toy eel that captured the attention of students and guests alike.

The day showcased thoughtful projects, strong school and community relationships, and the real changes young people are driving in their communities.

A celebration of learning and action

The celebration involved an awards ceremony, hosted by members of our Youth Rōpū Zoe Croot and Frida Peltzer

Enviroschools’ Regional Coordinator, Zoe Watson says our Youth Rōpū representatives did an “incredible job MCing the event.”

“They spoke powerfully about how being part of Enviroschools shaped their pathways, reinforcing the long-term impact this programme has in growing confident, informed and environmentally minded leaders.”

Recognising student achievement

Each student received a certificate presented by a representative from their district.

Waimakariri District: Mayor Dan Gordon congratulated local learners and acknowledged their influence both in school and at home.
Selwyn District: Councillors Elizabeth Mundt and Sophie McInnes joined the celebration.
Christchurch City: Deputy Mayor Victoria Henstock congratulated participating schools.
South Canterbury: Certificates were awarded by Riki Welsh from the Enviroschools team.

“It was fantastic to join the celebration and see first-hand the creativity and commitment our young people bring to sustainability. Guided by excellent teachers and supported by Enviroschools, these students are not only learning new skills in the classroom—they’re taking those ideas home and influencing their families.

That positive spillover effect benefits our whole community. I was delighted to be part of the celebration and incredibly proud of the hard work our schools and preschools have put in throughout the year,” said Waimakariri District Mayor Dan Gordon.

Enviroschools’ kaupapa shines bright

Enviroschools is a sustainability education program that has a kaupapa of empowering schools and communities to create healthy, resilient environments. It focuses on hands-on learning, collaboration, and long-term change, encouraging students to take action for people and the planet.

The celebration was a true testament to the programme’s kaupapa — creating healthy, peaceful and sustainable communities through learning and taking action together.

“It also highlighted how our work aligns with Environment Canterbury’s vision of taking action together to shape a thriving and resilient Canterbury, now and for future generations,” said Enviroschools’ regional coordinator, Zoe Watson.

Want your school to get involved?Learn more about the Enviroschools kaupapa, access facilitator support, and start your journey toward student-led environmental action.