Covers the principles of ecology and biogeography, with a distinct focus on New Zealand. Students investigate the processes that have shaped the New Zealand landmass and its biota. Impact of human settlement on New Zealand's ecosystems is explored in-depth. Methods and techniques of scientific research are incorporated in this course. Field exercises focus on topical case studies in a variety of ecosystems and are designed to strengthen students' conceptual knowledge, enable students to apply this knowledge, as well as develop field skills including classification systems, mapping, habitat assessment, field identification, and sampling techniques.