Schools and families from across the region are having a big get-together at the Auckland Botanic Gardens for Eye On Nature this week.

The annual environmental education event has three school-only days until March 30, and concludes with a free family day this Saturday.

Environmental organisations from across New Zealand are joining the Manukau Beautification Charitable Trust to stage the event, which is supported by six Auckland local boards and joined by many East Auckland schools.

With the theme for this year being From the Ground to the Table, the expo aims to encourage children to instigate more sustainable solutions at home and in schools.

The 1500 primary-aged attendees have the chance to discover nature with environmental groups, spend time with Sticky TV presenters, and showcase their talents in competitions.

"Eye On Nature is working with other like-minded organisations to educate and bring about public awareness to encourage a change in behaviour," event spokeswoman Nicole Stanton says.

"Reaching our young people and inspiring them to care for the living environment is the key, especially through fun and engaging activities."

In the first three days, children learn how to plant seedlings in recycled materials, compost left-over food, match packaged food to raw food, blend smoothies with bicycle power, and more.

During the family day on April 1, children can learn with Sticky TV presenters Jahmaine Paki, Walter Neilands​ and Leanna Cooper about the importance of eating different fruits and using their senses to explore nature.

Children can also join the "Bug Man" Ruud Kleinpaste for bush walks at Totara Park, learning to identify creatures and insects and about their natural habitats.

Budding chefs from high schools will demonstrate their skills in the cooking competition, while kindergarten and primary schoolchildren will show their creativity in an art competition.

At the end of the day, wearable art fashion show entries from schools across Auckland will be modelling on a catwalk and winners announced. ​

Some of the East Auckland schools funded by the trust to attend Eye On Nature include Howick Primary, Mission Heights Primary, Mellons Bay, Elm Park, Riverhills, Beachlands Primary, Botany Downs Primary, Wakaaranga, Riverina, and Bucklands Beach Primary.

"The event takes children and their families on an interactive journey in our New Zealand backyard learning all the different cycles that exist," trust community manager Barbara Carney says.

"Leave the event armed with knowledge and make a difference to your health and lifestyle by turning to the food that makes you feel amazing."

The Eye On Nature family day runs from 11am-5pm, with the wearable arts show at 6-8pm on April 1. Entry to the event at Auckland Botanic Gardens is via Everglade Drive, Totara Heights.Read more at:www.marieaustralia.com/green-formal-dresses