Experiencing Marine Reserves (EMR) has just run a hugely successful free event at Torbay.
Getting ready for a snorkel! From left: Micheal Bankart (13), Samantha Hughes, Kelsey Banwick, Elissa Wilson (7), guide Courtney Shaw and Cody Eagle (13) – Taken by Lorna Doogan.
Experiencing Marine Reserves (EMR) provided free snorkelling with gear and guide for 130 people at Waiake Bay, Torbay on Saturday the 4th of February.
Participants registered at the tent and were assigned a guide. Wetsuits, masks, snorkels and fins were fitted before the participants headed down to the water.
This day wouldn’t have been possible without the support from The Bobby Stafford-Bush Foundation and our fantastic volunteers.
Event organiser Lorna Doogan says “While Waiake Bay is not a marine protected area it does sit close to the southern boundary of Okura Marine Reserve. We run this event to show North Shore locals what they can see in their back yard! Participants saw yellow eyed mullet, nudibranchs, parore and spotties. Unfortunately the visibility wasn’t the best but everyone had fun!”
Click here for images from the day – if you need images just let me know which ones and I can send you the hi res versions.
The day in full swing!- Taken by Lorna Doogan
Yellow eyed mullet – Taken by Matthew Jones
Nudibranch – Taken by Samara Nicholas
Some feedback from participants:
“Very well organised event. I can’t believe it is free!” “Friendly and encouraging instructors. Thanks for giving us this wonderful time” “Awesome event organisation” “Cool – the kids enjoyed it!” “So fun!” “Today was awesome and I learnt how to dive!” “Very impressed!” “Today was epic and awesome”
To learn more about upcoming events see www.emr.org.nz or email Lorna on auckland@emr.org.nz