On a classic December day, the sun shining and there was barely a puff of wind at Campbells Bay. The MTSCT team, volunteer crew, and 222 participants took advantage of these amazing conditions to explore beneath the waves during our Campbells Bay Snorkel Day. Thanks to Tū Manawa Active Aotearoa and Water Safety New Zealand, whose support made this adventure possible!
This was the first time snorkelling for many of our participants, who were kept safe in the water by our team of dedicated volunteer guides. During the exploration kina, sea stars, cushion stars, gem nudibranchs were spotted, alongside habitat forming sponges and seaweeds!
However, it wasn't only incredible native species that were spotted. Many participants noticed the telltale tubes and spiral fans of the mediterranean fan worm, a marine pest that has become present in harbours across Aotearoa since its first detection in 2008.
For many participants this was their first time snorkelling, or in some cases swimming in the ocean, making it an awesome experience for all. We're always excited to provide these opportunities and can't wait for our next snorkel days in January 2025!
Nga mihi to our event funders Tū Manawa Active Aotearoa and Water Safety NZ. As always our events wouldn't be possible without our skilled EMR volunteers.
If you would like to support our public events or school education programmes you can donate money or sign up as a volunteer. We always need help with a wide range of tasks, from snorkel guiding, to photography, to funding applications and more. If you have any questions about volunteering in Tāmaki Makaurau feel free to email our volunteer coordinator callum@mountainstosea.org.nz
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