LEARNZ Mt Ruapehu Online field trip

In preparation for this field trip you will learn about the special character of the central North Island volcanoes, the science of volcanoes, Ruapehu as a modern tourist destination and how risks from its summit Crater Lake and lahars are managed. We hope to be accompanied at times by members of local iwi to learn about the special relationship that Ngati Tuwharetoa, Ngati Rangi and other iwi and hapu have with the Tongariro Volcanoes. During the field trip you will see how people live, work and play on the slopes of Mt Ruapehu coping with the risk of volcanic activity. Scientist Dr Harry Keys has a leading role in managing that risk and with a volcanologist from GNS Science will take you to remote places where you will take measurements and use instruments to listen to the rumbling volcano. You will experience and learn about the eruption and lahar warning systems and find out how organisations work together to make the volcano a safe place to visit and work, including an important river draining the Crater Lake. You will meet people with different viewpoints about Ruapehu but who all believe it is a special place. You will discover the reasons why Ruapehu exists and explore why there is, or is not, a volcano in your back yard!