The town's KidzWay Early Learning Centre Ngahere (Bush) Explorers group has been investigating all things nature-related for the past three years, as part of its curriculum for 4-year-olds.
Recently, the group was invited to adopt a 100m stretch of Pattersons Creek at the town's southern boundary on Kent St, by Pomahaka Water Care Group (PWCG) chairman Lloyd McCall.
Mr McCall has been co-ordinating the efforts of the Pomahaka catchment's farmers to improve water quality during the past three years, under the award-winning Pathways for the Pomahaka programme.
He said bringing through the next generation of young scientists was a further important step in promoting the enduring health of the region's waterways.
"We've got a couple of Ts to cross before we have the final go-ahead for this project, but all the parties concerned have indicated they're behind the idea, and Doc have agreed to fund things when we're getting under way. It's a great example of town and country working together for the wider benefit of all."
Doc funding would initially be used to provide protective stock fencing for the stretch of creek, allowing KidzWay to explore and monitor its reaches.
"We've found galaxiids here, and a big part of what PWCG does through its farmer members is water quality testing and plantings to improve water quality. So there are all sorts of options for the kids to get involved and engage them with their local environment."
KidzWay head teacher Denise Sanne said the new site would provide easier access to the outdoors for the Ngahere Explorers.
"Our explorers love to investigate nature and engage their natural curiosity ... our other site is about 45 minutes away, so to have this so much closer would be wonderful.
"What kid doesn't love bugs and beetles?"
Nixon Waitokia-Morgan (4), was more interested in the creek's finned and feathered friends, however.
"I like nature because I like fishing and eating the fish. Birds are nice too."
