Into Nature School

About Into Nature School

Into Nature School was established in 2019 when we noticed a decline in children having the opportunity to learn in the outdoors. We dreamed of a school in the native bush where children could run free, be inspired to create, explore and learn regardless of their academic abilities. We dreamed of a place where children would feel included and accepted. Where they would feel respected, cared for and nurtured. We dreamed of a concept where learning in a mixed aged group is encouraged and celebrated. Where different levels of social skills isn't a barrier to children living their best life because being immersed in nature is the greatest teacher and the ultimate healer.


At Into Nature School, we are committed to seeing children off devices and playing outside, exploring and creating in all weather. Students engage in hands-on, authentic learning experiences that build resilience, confidence, and problem-solving skills, preparing them to be inquisitive thinkers of the future. Into Nature School offers a perfectly balanced sensory experience. It inspires the mind, and it is the ideal setting for evaluating risks and accepting challenges.

Our programme operates during the school term through our 'One Day Each Week' Programme, as well as during school holidays. In the 'One Day Each Week" programme, students attend Into Nature School once a week, while continuing their regular schooling on the remaining days. Consistent attendance on the same day each week fosters a strong sense of belonging and friendship, which are central to our school culture.

We focus on the key competencies from the New Zealand curriculum, with a little twist to make them meaningful to our unique environment. We strive to encompass all curriculum areas, as any given session, activity or experience will involve science, maths, physical education, oral language, reading, and art. All learning is deep and engaging, and most importantly meaningful - authentic.

During the school holidays, we run our 'Finding Wild' Holiday Programme. This programme is separate from our term-time programme and can be booked for a minimum of 2 days per holidays. Enrolment is open to everyone, not just term-time students.

Our 'Finding Wild' school holiday programme is also 100% device free and caters for primary and intermediate aged children. The children will spend their days in our forest playing and exploring amongst the trees, swimming and fishing, making new friends and cooking delicious food over the firepit. Your child will be immersed in the Kahikatea forest, surrounded by native bird song. They will search for mini-beasts, koura and eels in the streams. They'll play in the mud, make dens and construct huts using tools. They will hike up and over the hills, adventuring and exploring all corners of Into Nature School. Your child will have fun from the moment they arrive to the end of the day, dragging their feet as they leave because they won't want to go.