SeaKeepers Ocean Youth Programme Floating Classroom

On March 18, 2026, our Programme Manager, Alessandra Vallim, led a Floating Classroom experience aboard a glass-bottom boat in Leigh at Goat Island / Te Hāwere-a-Maki Marine Reserve. The trip brought together 22 students from Albany Senior High School, all participants in the SeaKeepers Ocean Youth Programme, for a hands-on day of marine exploration and learning.

During the excursion, students gained valuable insight into the purpose and importance of marine reserves, and how protected areas help sustain biodiversity and ecosystem health. From the boat, they observed a vibrant underwater world, spotting a variety of fish species as well as two New Zealand eagle rays.

The learning extended beyond observation. Students conducted water quality testing, building practical skills and a deeper understanding of the factors that influence ocean health. Following the boat session, the group took part in a rocky shore activity, where they explored the intertidal zone and worked together to identify as many organisms as possible living among the reefs.