Orewa College Level 1 Geography students explored Auckland’s wild west coast, experiencing Piha Beach, Mercer Bay Loop, and the Waitakere Ranges. Read more about their field trip.

Level 1 Geography Trip: Experiencing Auckland’s Wild West Coast

Last Tuesday, our Level 1 Geography students took a hands-on approach to learning by exploring Auckland’s dramatic west coast.

A Journey Through the Waitakere Ranges to Piha Beach

• The trip began with a winding drive through the lush, native bush of the Waitakere Ranges, offering a glimpse into this unique environment.

• Students observed first-hand the impact of volcanic activity and coastal erosion.

• A scenic walk along the rugged coastal cliffs of the Mercer Bay Loop Track provided stunning views of the Tasman Sea.

• The students then arrived at Piha, one of New Zealand’s most iconic surf beaches.

• They studied the black sand, formed from volcanic rock, and saw how the ocean carves the coastline.

Real-World Learning

This trip gave students a deeper understanding of:

• Coastal processes and landforms

• The impact of climate and weather patterns

• The role of erosion and tectonic activity

Ngā mihi to the teachers who made this trip possible and to our students for their enthusiasm in exploring the whenua!