INFORMATION FOR
TEACHERS & SCHOOLS
Here in Aotearoa New Zealand, we have some amazing wind farms. The very first wind turbine was built in 1993 at Wellington on Brooklyn Hill, and since then, 661 wind turbines have been installed across the country.
In 2024 there are 21 wind farms operating that provide clean energy to over 553,000 kiwi households. Some of these wind turbines are as large as buildings, and some of the newer ones are as high as a 40-story building at heights of almost 160 metres!
As the technology for wind turbines continues to develop, turbine sizes are getting larger and larger. It is thought that within the next 5-10 years, these turbines may reach over 260 metres in height from the ground to the top of the wind turbine tip.
Offshore wind turbines, which are installed out at sea, are almost this size now and will be even larger again in coming years!
NZWEA recognises the importance of increasing the awareness of climate change, the impact of global warming and the need to reduce emissions from the energy sector. The Association has developed two learning packages exploring:
1. Climate change and renewable energy; and
2. What is wind energy and how is electricity produced.
Climate Change Learning Package
The climate change learning package focuses on exploring climate change and global warming and how renewable energy can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and help us improve the environment and move to a low carbon economy. The package comes complete with a student fact sheet for research and/or shared reading and discussion activities.
Wind Energy Learning Package
The wind energy unit specifically focuses on how electricity is made and explaining how wind turbines work. The package also explores the benefits and environmental impacts of wind energy and provides insight into why societies must make good decisions about using natural resources. The package comes complete with a student fact sheet for research and/or shared reading and discussion activities.
WANT TO KNOW MORE
VIEW OUR RESOURCES
Learn more about how wind farms work or visit one of the operational wind farms
Can I visit an operational Wind Farm?
NZWEA do not own or operate any wind farms in NZ, but we can put you in touch with a company that does. Not all wind farm owners allow public access due to health & safety restrictions, but some can arrange guided tours with company representatives. Please contact us using the link below, and we can put you in contact with the right party to arrange a visit.
How do I arrange for Someone to speak to my school classroom about wind farms?
NZWEA employees are unfortunately unable to provide this service, however some of the larger companies that own and operate wind farms do have capability to come to your school to talk about them. Please contact NZWEA and we will put you in touch with the right people to arrange this service.
TEACHERS AND SCHOOLS
FAQ's
View some of our most frequently asked questions from teachers and schools.
Get in touch
If you’d like to discuss anything related to Wind Energy with our team we’d love to hear from you.