eLearnAfrica
Biodiversity, Guardianship, and the Natural History of New Zealand: A Museum Perspective
Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa
  • Start Date: 01 Aug, 2022
  • 2 weeks
  • Study Content: Videos


Learn how the natural history of Aotearoa has shaped its unique biodiversity, Māori culture and the values of New Zealanders.

Course Fee: Free
Certificate Cost: See Fees and Eligibility
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Course Description

This course is made available through the eLearnAfrica and FutureLearn partnership.

Trace how natural history shaped New Zealand biodiversity, culture & landscapes


Aotearoa New Zealand is a land of fascinating natural wonders, founded on a geological and environmental history spanning 85 million years.


On this two-week course, you’ll gain an overview of New Zealand’s natural history, exploring how the geology, wildlife, and culture of the islands are interconnected.


Guided by the Learning Team at Te Papa Tongarewa, the National Museum of New Zealand, you’ll examine relevant artefacts and exhibits to contextualise your understanding of natural history, conservation, and New Zealand culture.


Discover how earthquakes and volcanic activity have imprinted on Māori culture


Māori knowledge is intrinsically connected with the wild forces experienced on the island.


You’ll learn how Māori mythology explained these phenomena and find out how creation stories have helped reinforce a spiritual connection to the land.


Explore how tectonic forces have impacted New Zealand’s biodiversity


The forces that shaped Aotearoa’s landscape also had a profound effect on the plants and animals populating these islands.


You’ll investigate the niche shift that occurred in New Zealand to produce the island’s biodiversity, examining the native birds of New Zealand and a land free of native mammals.


Examine animal conservation in Aotearoa


The arrival of humans in Aotearoa decimated habitats and species at an alarming rate. It is no surprise that, as a response, conservation and guardianship of native animals has become integral to Māori culture and Aotearoa values today.


You’ll be introduced to various conservation projects and reflect on the shared national responsibility to protect the island’s biodiversity.


By the end of this course, you’ll be able to track the geological evolution of New Zealand, explaining how the landscape and its wildlife have shaped cultural values.


This course is designed for anyone with an interest in the Pacific region, museums, science, history, culture, or the arts.


It is particularly suitable for international or NZ students who want to gain an introductory insight into New Zealand history and culture.


Certificate cost may vary. You will be redirected to the host page for cost and payment options.

Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa

This university is part of the partnership between eLearnAfrica and FutureLearn.

This institution is available on eLearnAfrica through partnership with FutureLearn.

You may be able to download course materials after enrolling in this course. If not, all of the necessary course materials provided by the course instructor will be available on the provider's course page.
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