Sea & Learn is back!

Kaharoa tied up at Princes Wharf in Auckland. (Photo: Alan Blacklock)

On the bridge with Skipper Evan Solly. (Photo: Alan Blacklock)

Students exchange views with Environment Minister David Benson-Pope. (Photo: Alan Blacklock)

Students from Papatoetoe High School sieving sediments. (Photo: Alan Blacklock)

Scientist Mark Orams points out the features of a sponge from the trawl. (Photo: Alan Blacklock)

With joint sponsorship by NIWA and the Sir Peter Blake Trust, the popular hands-on science shipboard education programme has returned after a hiatus of four years. Enviroment Minister David Benson-Pope officiated at the launch.

Sea & Learn is a day-long programme geared for senior high school students and their teachers on board NIWA’s research vessel Kaharoa. The programme is designed to let students experience ‘real life’ hands-on science and interact directly with scientists and the ship’s crew. It also provides teachers with a quality teaching resource linked to the New Zealand curriculum and an opportunity for professional development. The programme focuses on New Zealand’s unique marine environment.

The day’s activities include:

• Water sampling to collect and examine microscopic organisms.
• Benthic sampling to investigate the seafloor habitat and organisms.
• Learning about ship technology, including navigation, communication, and weather forecasting.
• Trawling for fish and learning to identify different species.
• Observing and discussing human impacts on the marine environment.

Sea & Learn ran for 10 days in March from the ports of Tauranga, Whangarei, and Auckland. More than 150 students from 10 schools enjoyed good weather and calm conditions (on most of the trips). In 2008, we plan to run the programme in the lower North Island and the South Island.

For further information, contact:
Dr Julie Hall, 0-7-856 1709,
j.hall@niwa.co.nz
or visit www.niwascience.co.nz/edu/schools/sl/