Te Kura Moana (School of the Ocean)
The Experiencing Marine Reserves programme empowers schools and communities by providing hands-on experience in the ocean. The aim of EMR is to raise awareness, understanding, and involvement in marine conservation through dynamic, experiential environmental education opportunities. The full EMR programme involves investigating marine biodiversity within local marine environments before venturing to a fully protected Marine Reserve. After this experience, students can compare unprotected and protected areas and are encouraged to put their knowledge into action within the community.
Experiencing Marine Reserves is a professional marine education provider and a programme of the charity (CC #23406 + adventure safety certified (AAO 534), run by the Mountains to Sea Conservation Trust. Since its establishment in Northland in 2002, the programme has expanded and continued to grow throughout the country thanks to the continued support from the Department of Conservation (DOC), Tindall Foundation and the Gulf Community Fund.
EMR and Tasman Bay Guardians
The Experiencing Marine Reserves programme delivered by Tasman Bay Guardians offers immersive, hands-on learning experiences in marine conservation. Since its inception in 2002, EMR has engaged over 207,000 people nationwide, providing safe and supervised snorkel excursions at local beaches and marine reserves. The programme’s aim is to inspire marine conservation actions by fostering a deep connection between people and their local marine environments. Through these dynamic experiences, participants gain a greater understanding of the importance of protecting our marine ecosystems. In the Nelson Tasman region Tasman Bay Guardians delivers the local Experiencing Marine Reserves programes; community guided snorkelling events (CGSD), Group/tailored snorkel activities and taiao/wananga snorkel activities in salty, fresh and estuarine waterways. Recently there has been lots of interest in river drift snorkels and watch this space for some night snorkels!
EMR learning opportunities
School Programmes
STEP 1 – Classroom learning: Interactive presentations and games.
STEP 2 – Learn to snorkel in a pool: Developing skills for the ocean.
STEP 3 – Snorkel at your local beach: Having a look underwater.
STEP 4 – Snorkel at your local marine reserve: Having another look underwater this time at a protected site.
STEP 5 – Create an action project: By comparing the two sites (unprotected and protected), tamariki can see firsthand the challenges their local environment is facing, identify what might be causing the differences, and brainstorm ways to help and take action. The best action projects from around Aotearoa earn a spot on the Annual Poor Knights Trip.
Tailored programmes: Needing activities to add to your school camp? Field trips to tie into Education Outside the Classroom (EOTC), science and mātauranga Māori? We are able to create a user pays or funded programme to suit your needs.
Community guided snorkel days (CGSD)
Community Guided Snorkel Days are very popular, free events open to participants aged 5 and up. Participants receive all the necessary gear to explore various marine and freshwater environments with trained snorkelling guides. These events provide a fantastic opportunity for locals to connect with the natural treasures in their own backyard and promote the practice of kaitiakitanga. For many, it’s their first time snorkelling, making it a memorable family day out sharing a unique experience in te taiao.
Additionally, mana whenua provide storytelling that deepens the cultural and historical understanding of the area, enriching the overall experience. Water safety education is also a key component of the day, ensuring participants gain valuable knowledge alongside their adventure. These events are wonderful for the community and families, fostering a sense of connection and responsibility towards our natural environment.
So far we have scheduled in Rotokura/Cable Bay CGSD, Tonga Marine Reserve CGSD, Waitapu Drift Dive CGSD and the Motueka Drift Dive CGSD
Taiao day or Wānanga snorkel activity
Tasman Bay Guardians work closely with iwi to support their Wānanga and taiao days (rangatahi focused). In the past, we have provided snorkelling activities and freshwater education, with ocean and river drift snorkels being particularly popular. These activities are designed to enhance and deepen the connection to their whenua, fostering kaitiakitanga and cultural appreciation among participants.
Check out a recent trip by Loud Noise Media! Ngati Apa taiao day at Te Hoiere
Groups/tailored packages
Tasman Bay Guardians offer tailored snorkel packages to meet the unique needs of any group. These custom experiences are perfect for fostering team bonding, enhancing group cohesion, and creating unforgettable shared memories. Whether for corporate team-building events, school groups, or community organisations, our snorkel packages provide an engaging and educational way to connect with the marine and freshwater environments. With trained guides and all necessary equipment provided, participants can enjoy a safe and enriching experience that promotes environmental awareness and appreciation.
