Manta Watch New Zealand
Project Overview:
Despite being fully protected in New Zealand waters since 2011, under the Wildlife Act, the biggest threat to Aotearoa’s oceanic manta rays is the lack of data. We simply don’t know enough about this lesser known population to provide adequate protection or establish long term conservation management. To inform change, vital data relating to population dynamics, behaviour and habitat need to be collected through underwater video / images, aerial drone and satellite tag deployments.
Program Partners
- Manta Watch New Zealand
Location
- Hauraki Gulf, Coromandel, Poor Knights, Northland, Bay of Plenty, North Cape
Expected Time Frame
- January- June and September-December 2024-2025
Duration of Expedition
- 1-12 days
Accommodation Needed
- 2-5 Researchers
Special Equipment Needed
- Access to tender, high vantage point for surveys, and dive compressor optional
Expedition parameters listed above are flexible and negotiable.
Background:
Manta Watch New Zealand’s research team consists of experienced marine scientists and educators specialized in multifaceted manta ray research and conservation, including:
– Research project development and implementation.
– Manta ray conservation management in developed and developing countries.
– Manta ray satellite tagging and analysis.
– Experienced in in-water interactions with manta rays via SCUBA and free diving.
– Aerial and underwater drone pilots.
– Working with indigenous communities to create long term sustainable conservation outcomes.
– Establishing successful citizen science and community driven projects.
Mission:
Manta Watch New Zealand’s mission is to foster knowledge of and advocacy for Aotearoa New Zealand’s oceanic ecosystems through research, conservation, education, and collaboration.
Applications:
Their mission is achieved by:
– Scientific research on the data deficient and globally endangered mobulid ray species found in Aotearoa’s waters; the oceanic manta ray and spinetail devil ray.
– Communicating findings to the scientific community, relevant management bodies, iwi, local communities, and the general public.
– Creating opportunities to engage with schools and communities to advance oceanic marine environmental education and advocacy, through citizen science, presentations, and outreach.
– Recognizing and respecting the cultural values of kaitiakitanga and Mātauranga Māori of the oceanic environment to tangata whenua through knowledge sharing, project collaborations and partnership.
Program Partners:
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