HBT was delighted to collaborate with the Hanmer Springs Winter Festival, Canterbury Museum and Hurunui District Libraries to bring this fascinating event to local children.

Canterbury Museum insect educators Morgane Merien and Anthony Henning captivated children and adults alike with fascinating stories and displays of mini-beasts from around the world. Their collection included spider specimens that can be found in Hanmer’s surrounding forests. Visitors were astonished to learn that these spiders with their large, hairy bodies and long legs live right here in their backyard.

There was another surprise for children who may have been nervous about getting familiar with so many strange ‘mini beasts’. Contentedly nibbling on feijoa leaves inside a small enclosure were three stick insects that Morgane keeps as pets. The children were able to gently hold these remarkable insects, and any apprehension quickly gave way to curious questions and observations. By creating these hands-on encounters, Morgane hopes to foster a lifelong sense of wonder, respect and connection with the extraordinary world of insects.

HBT also hopes that experiences like these help nurture an appreciation for the extraordinary diversity and importance of life around us. Around 90 people visited over the afternoon.