Pānui Enviroschools Enviroschools Newsletter
He mihi | Welcome
Welcome to the Waikato Enviroschools newsletter.
Just like that, we're halfway through 2026! It's a good reminder to slow down, be present and appreciate the small things in life.
There's been plenty to reflect on and celebrate these last two terms, and there's much more on the horizon for Waikato Enviroschools.
Last term was full of exciting Enviroschools events for students and teachers. The Enviroleaders Summit at Ōtāwhao Marae, Te Awamutu College, was a particular highlight – we welcomed around 30 students and look forward to reconnecting with this group, and newcomers, for the final part of the summit.
The Enviroschools Fund opens again soon, with applications welcome between 25 August and 6 October. The fund is available to assist with any projects that support the sustainability kaupapa and provide environmental education. Be sure to reach out to your facilitator if you would like to apply or want to know more about the process.
Thank you to Ōtaua and Springdale schools for submitting posters to the Check, Clean, Dry poster challenge – ka pai tō mahi! Entries are now closed and winners will be announced in Term 3.
This term we farewell Greta Dromogol from the Enviroschools team. We thank Greta for her amazing contributions, especially in the Matamata-Piako area, and wish her the best for the future.
We hope this newsletter offers an engaging read. Please feel free to forward it to any interested colleagues.
Ngā mihi,
The Enviroschools team
Apply for the Enviroschools Fund
Small grants are available for sustainability projects, resources and initiatives. Get in touch with your local facilitator to find out about eligibility and how to apply.
Ngā kaupapa e haere ake nei | Opportunities
Ngā hua | Our stories
He tīwhiri | Quick sustainability tips
Small changes at home or at school can make a big difference for pollinators and the wider environment. Here are a few simple ideas to try:
- Plant pollinator-friendly flowers such as lavender, borage and phacelia to support bees and butterflies.
- Leave a wild corner in the garden or school grounds for insects and other wildlife to shelter in.
- Choose native plants where possible – they support local biodiversity and generally need less watering.
- Avoid pesticides and sprays that can harm bees and other beneficial insects.
- Provide a shallow dish of water with stones for bees and other pollinators to drink from safely.
Try one tip this term and see what changes you notice in your garden or outdoor space.
He rauemi | Resource spotlight: Potato in a Bucket
This term we're spotlighting the Potato in a Bucket challenge – a simple, hands-on way for tamariki to learn about growing kai. Plant a seed potato in a bucket, care for it over the term, then harvest and celebrate the results as a class or whānau. It's a great low-cost activity that connects directly to kai sovereignty and sustainability learning.
He pūtea | Funding available
The Enviroschools Fund supports schools and early learning services with small grants for sustainability projects, resources and initiatives. If you have an idea you'd like to bring to life, get in touch with your local facilitator to find out more about eligibility and how to apply.
Ngā ringa hāpai | Enviroschools Waikato facilitation team
Adrienne Grant
Lead Facilitator, Waikato, Matamata-Piako, South Waikato and Hamilton
adrienne.grant@waikatoregion.govt.nz
Anna Cunningham
Facilitator, Ōtorohanga, Waikato and Hamilton
anna.cunningham@waikatoregion.govt.nz
Alex Daniel
Facilitator, Waipā, Hamilton and Matamata-Piako
alex.daniel@waikatoregion.govt.nz
Nic Roderick
Facilitator, Taupō and South Waikato
Nic.Roderick@waikatoregion.govt.nz
Cami Carty-Melis
Facilitator, Rotorua Lakes and Waitomo
cami.carty-melis@waikatoregion.govt.nz
Gypsy Taylor-Hewitt
Facilitator, Waipā and Hamilton
Gypsy.Taylor-Hewitt@waikatoregion.govt.nz
Jo Buchan
Facilitator, Hauraki and Thames Coromandel
jo.buchan@waikatoregion.govt.nz
Rachael Cheeseman
Facilitator, Waikato and Thames Coromandel
rachael.cheeseman@waikatoregion.govt.nz
Michelle Daly
Waikato Regional Coordinator
michelle.daly@waikatoregion.govt.nz
Find out more
Visit the team area for a great selection of national news, resources and ideas. To register, go to 'Team Area Login' and click 'Register'. To find your school or center's MoE number go to educationcounts.govt.nz.
