‘Volcano e-Van’ brings free natural disaster education to Auckland schools

An LDV eDeliver electric van with volcanoes painted on it and called the “Volcano e-Van” provides free natural hazard education to Auckland schools.

It’s enabled through a partnership between Toka Tu Ake EQC and Auckland War Memorial Museum, the latter providing the ‘Volcanoes: The Floor is Lava’ programme.

The interactive experience allows pupils to connect with their local volcanoes, explore different types of eruptions, and be tested on their preparedness.

The programme aims to educate young learners about volcanoes, and to help them better understand the science behind them.

“Aotearoa New Zealand has a landscape that has been formed by volcanic activity,” says Auckland Museum chief executive David Gaimster.

“While many of our volcanos in Tāmaki Makaurau are extinct, we must be vigilant and ensure our tamariki are educated and prepared about the volcanos that still pose a risk to our communities.”

Toka Tu Ake EQC public education manager Hamish Armstrong says its goal is for Kiwis to have a better understanding of natural hazards.

“Our hope is to build resilience among our future generations, this starts with educating our tamariki today.”

Schools can either experience the programme on-site at Auckland Museum, or it can be brought to their classroom by the Volcano Van.

Click here for a free booking.