Geography comes to life in the Central North Island
Posted on June 08, 2026
Year 12 Macleans College Geography students recently explored the volcanic landscapes of the Central North Island as part of their Level 2 research internal.
Accompanied by Mr Percival, Miss Taylor, Mr Hamilton and Mrs Glasgow-Palmer, students investigated geographic processes first-hand while collecting data around Mount Ruapehu.
Although the weather was cold and crisp, the lack of rain created ideal conditions for fieldwork and data collection.
Throughout the trip, students observed a range of geographic processes in action. One of the highlights was witnessing the strong winds funnel through the Tama Saddle and across the Rangipo Desert - providing a clear example of the area's dynamic landscape.
The trip also included several memorable stops. Students visited the iconic Ohakune Big Carrot and neighbouring Carrotland Adventure Park, stopped in the Kiwiana capital of Ōtorohanga and enjoyed burgers inside the converted DC-3 aircraft at Taupō.
