SciCon 2025 Fieldtrips - these may incur an extra cost.
University of Otago Geology Museum and Department:
Join us on a tour of the Geology Museum and Department, containing the largest collection of rocks, minerals and fossils in the South Island. There will also be rotations of activities focused on the geology of Aotearoa. There is a short walk from the conference venue to the University, max of 30 participants. 1:30 walk to university, 2-4 tour and activities.
University of Otago Anatomy Museum:
The Anatomy Museum was established in 1875, four years after the University itself was founded. It holds a large collection of anatomical specimens and models, with some interactive "hands-on" activities on the tour. The tour is open to secondary school visits, so make the most of the opportunity and explore what's on offer. There is a short walk from the conference venue to the University, max of 40 participants. Tour and activities begin 3:15. Walk to museum anytime before then to arrive in time (20-30 min walk from venue).
University of Otago PE Department:
On offer is a thermoregulation lab experience aimed at secondary school teachers for senior Biology classes to show a practical application of the topic. There are three rotations: participants will require swimming togs and a change of clothes (towels are provided). There is a PARQ form (Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire) that participants will be required to fill out at the conference. There is a short walk from the conference venue to the University, max of 30 participants. 3:30-5pm; must walk to venue to arrive in time (20-30 min walk from venue).
Dunedin Botanical Garden Guided Tour:
A specialised guided tour will give you an overview of the wide range of botanical species in the gardens. The tour will start at the top of the hill and finish at the bottom (route is mostly downhill and on a gravelled path surface), to save a walk back up the hill. You will also make your way around the propagation facilities, hot house, and native and geographic collections. Please note that there is a cost to this tour of $20. Max of 20 people. 2pm-3pm tour.
Orokonui Ecosanctuary:
A 1.5 hour guided tour around a world-class ecosanctuary, managing 307 hectares of Coastal Otago Forest, with a 9km predator fence allowing native wildlife to thrive. Pests have been removed, habitat enhanced with planting, and many rare and endangered species call Orokonui home. Please note there is a $50 cost to this field trip. Transport to and from Orokonui is provided, and a free hot drink of your choice can be ordered on arrival. Max of 30 people. 12:45 transport leaving Dunedin, arrive 1:15-1:30 Orokonui, tour 2-4pm. Arrive back in Dunedin no later than 5pm.
Speights Brewery Tour:
Since 1876 the brewery has been proudly producing Speight's legendary ales. The brewery tour is an award-winning interactive and informative guided tour. You will see, smell, touch and taste the ingredients that go into making Speight's beers - and of course, get to sample some for yourself! Please note that covered shoes are required to do the tour, and there is a cost of $45. Transport is provided to Speights from the conference venue, but you will need to make your own way back to your accommodation and the conference dinner. Max of 30 people. Transport leaving venue 1:30, arrive for 2-3:30pm tour.
Portobello Marine Centre:
Come and explore the marine facilities near the end of the Otago Peninsula. Hear about the latest research, get to know the creatures who live there and find out more about secondary school field trips on offer for senior biology students. Transport is provided from the conference to the Marine Centre and back. Max of 30 people. Pick up 12:45pm LPHS, arrive Portobello 1:30pm. Dropped back at LPHS no later than 5pm.
Physics and Chemistry Mellor Labs:
Come along to hear about the latest research and facilities at the Chemistry Mellor labs, and some activities on offer from the Energy and Physics Department. There are also opportunities to take senior Chemistry and Physics students for practical work. There is a short walk from the conference venue to the University, max of 20 participants. Walk 1:30 from venue, 2pm begin. Finish approx. 4pm.
