Description:

Step into the virtual world of Kauri Pou Kaitiaki, an innovative VR experience crafted to foster awareness and inspire action for the conservation of Aotearoa's treasured Kauri trees. Commissioned by Waikato Regional Council and developed with guidance from a Māori advisory group, this immersive journey combines cultural storytelling with interactive elements to educate and engage audiences of all ages.

At its core, Kauri Pou Kaitiaki aims to address the urgent threat of Kauri dieback disease and promote sustainable behaviours through experiential learning.

The VR experience begins underwater, narrating the traditional Māori story of the interconnectedness between Kauri trees and marine life, symbolising their cultural and ecological significance. Users are then transported into a vibrant Kauri forest, where they encounter diverse flora and fauna, including giant wētā and kōkaha, meticulously recreated to ensure ecological accuracy.

Designed as an educational tool, Kauri Pou Kaitiaki utilises VR technology to provide a risk-free exploration of Kauri habitats, inaccessible to the public due to conservation efforts. Participants engage in an interactive shoe-cleaning game, reinforcing the importance of biosecurity measures in preventing the spread of soil-borne pathogens—a crucial aspect of Kauri protection.

Since its debut, Kauri Pou Kaitiaki has received positive feedback for its immersive quality and educational impact. It has been showcased at schools, community events, and even featured at prominent exhibitions like Fieldays, reaching diverse audiences across Northland. Participants, including hundreds of students from local schools, have praised the experience for its ability to evoke empathy and understanding towards Kauri conservation efforts.

Join us in experiencing Kauri Pou Kaitiaki—a virtual journey that inspires action and celebrates the resilience of Kauri trees. Together, we can protect these ancient giants for future generations and preserve the biodiversity of Aotearoa's forests.