The Ngā Motu Marine Society is a regional partner of the Mountains to Sea Conservation Trust and the endorsed Taranaki provider of the nation-wide Experiencing Marine Reserves programme. EMR provides Taranaki schools and their communities with the expertise, knowledge and snorkel equipment to experience their local marine environments first-hand, fostering kaitiakitanga.

Each year we work with one or two classes from four different schools in Taranaki. We have had a great reach around Taranaki Maunga connecting with a wide range of school communities: from north to south, rural to coastal.

Students start the programme by learning about the fundamentals of marine biodiversity and conservation in Aotearoa/NZ. Then they practise snorkel skills and safety in the school pool with our EMR Coordinator. Once students are confident, they use their snorkel skills to explore their local marine environment - usually Ngāmotu Beach, which is safe and accessible for beginners. They are supported in the water by parents who are trained to be snorkel supervisors.

An essential part of the EMR programme is a trip to Te-Hāwere-a-Maki/Goat Island or Wellington to snorkel in a Marine Reserve. Students can then make comparisons between protected and unprotected marine environments.

Throughout the year, teachers lead further learning about marine conservation and, supported by the EMR coordinator, students undertake action projects to benefit the marine environment.

Learn more about EMR here.