Future students

In this course you will be introduced to the Earth system, covering the physical processes that shape the Earth and environment. This course emphasises how humans interact with the environment, recognising differing societal perspectives, especially ...

In GEOS 102 you will explore the foundations of Earth Science, necessary for understanding and mitigating climate change and natural hazards, including sea-level rise, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions. In addition, you will be introduced to enviro...

A broad introduction to Antarctica, including its history, exploration, weather, geology, fauna and management. Its role in the global climate system is emphasised. This course is primarily designed for non-science majors.

The Antarctic Research Centre is offering this summer course. Designed for science and non-science students, this course provides a summary of current knowledge on climate change, the evidence and its uncertainties, and possible climate scenarios for...

This course equips students with the fundamental principles of hydrology and water management. Through practical exercises and theory, you will learn about hydrological processes, river dynamics, floods, and droughts. We then apply this theoretical k...

This course examines all common major rock types and introduces crystallography as it pertains to optical mineralogy, with examples of a variety of common minerals and rocks in hand sample and under the microscope. The course covers the origins of co...

This course provides an understanding of major geohazard phenomena, from volcanic eruptions and earthquakes to tsunami, landslides and beyond. Through field trips, hands-on exercises and class-based learning, you will learn about geohazard identifica...

Building on your knowledge of Earth systems, you will acquire practical understanding of theories and methods used for subsurface imaging, analysis, and sampling. The techniques underpin groundwater and geothermal exploration and utilization. Rock ma...

Humanity lives and depends on sedimentary environments (e.g., soil for farming, coastal plains for residence). You will learn to interpret and explain the interactions that are occurring today between environment and climate change, Earth-surface pro...

An introduction to field techniques in geology held at the Geology department's field station at Onekaka, near Takaka, Northwest Nelson. The course trains students in basic methods of geological field mapping and provides training and experience in t...

This course equips students with the fundamental principles of hydrology and water management. Through practical exercises and theory, you will learn about hydrological processes, river dynamics, floods, and droughts. We then apply this theoretical k...

An introduction to the fundamental concepts, principles and methods in global tectonics and structural geology. The laboratory part of the course emphasises practical methods of structural analysis and interpretation based on outcrop, rock mechanics,...

In this course, you will investigate the unique forces that have led to the formation and evolution of Aotearoa's iconic landscapes, including te ao Māori perspectives. You will gain an understanding of the processes through field expeditions to coll...

This course provides an understanding of major geohazard phenomena, from volcanic eruptions and earthquakes to tsunami, landslides and beyond. Through field trips, hands-on exercises and class-based learning, you will learn about geohazard identifica...

This course covers geophysical techniques to explore the subsurface, with applications to engineering, environmental and groundwater monitoring, seismic hazard assessment, exploration for energy and mineral resources, and other aspects of Earth struc...

Topic to be advised.

Sedimentary deposits record past changes in Earth’s surface environments and biosphere – a series of natural experiments that provide important context for the future of global change. You will learn to use knowledge of processes operating today to i...

In this course you will explore dynamic processes that shape our earth though tectonics, faulting, metamorphism, and magmatism. Through practical exercises and interactive lectures, you will learn about the principles of plate tectonics, earth struct...

Building on your knowledge of Earth systems, you will acquire practical understanding of theories and methods used for subsurface imaging, analysis, and sampling. The techniques underpin groundwater and geothermal exploration and utilization. Rock ma...

Field mapping and analysis of geological structures, including folds, thrust and active strike-slip faults. You will measure structural data, produce maps and draw cross-sections of Kekerengu, an area on the Kaikoura coast that provides a dramatic wi...

Methods and techniques for studying volcanic geology in the field. This course runs from Whakapapa in the Taupo Volcanic Zone (TVZ) of the central North Island. It examines the products of andesite and basalt eruptions from the Tongariro National Par...

Field sedimentary mapping in the hills east of Martinborough, covering the basics of mapping sedimentary sequences in an area of simple deformation. A map, cross-section and stratigraphic columns are prepared and an environmental analysis of the sect...

Field sedimentary mapping in the hills east of Martinborough, covering the basics of mapping sedimentary sequences in an area of simple deformation. A map, cross- section and stratigraphic columns are prepared and an environmental analysis of the sec...

In this course, you will learn to recognise and describe active faults in the field. You will gain the ability to distinguish between ancient and active geological structures, gather and analyse structural data, quantify fault slip rates, and perform...

Methods and techniques for field geophysical surveys. This block course runs over a week, usually during the mid-trimester break, in a part of New Zealand that may vary from year to year. Students will learn how to apply several different techniques ...

This international field course in earth sciences aims to examine key geographical, geological and/or geophysical localities. The course will offer a variable but unique insight, understanding and experience of earth science in the field beyond that ...

This practical course is for Earth and Environmental Science students who want to develop the skills and tools to maintain a simple and sustainable science communication practice alongside their studies. Guided by an experienced geo-education practit...

This course looks at the frontiers of research on the tectonics of plate boundaries and lithospheric geodynamics, focusing on current scientific debate about these topics with examples from around the world.

This course introduces fundamental concepts, principles and methods in geochemistry and the application of geochemical tools to igneous and metamorphic rocks and processes. Topics include the formation of the elements, and composition of the Earth, t...

How can we know what materials are under the Earth’s surface? This course will cover methods to find out, including applications in environmental earth science such as seismic hazards, geothermal energy and groundwater. This new knowledge will prepar...