Explore Your Coast
Discover New Zealand’s coastal marine ecosystems and marine life
Thriving Marine Ecosystems for Generations to Come
New Zealand’s marine ecosystems are filled with amazing marine life, but they need help.
Explore Your Coast is a group of communications, science, education and marine conservation professionals, all volunteering their time to:
- Inspire New Zealanders to connect with the ocean.
- Raise awareness and understanding of coastal ecosystems and their ecological importance.
- Empower and support communities to become active stewards of the ocean.
We support communities across New Zealand to connect to, explore and document their coast. The observations gathered contribute to research for local conservation and restoration projects, helping decision-makers better manage and protect marine life and ecosystems.
Our vision
All New Zealanders have a strong connection to the ocean. A healthy ocean and marine life are part of daily life – they are talked about, visible in our communities, and celebrated and enjoyed by everyone. Thriving and resilient marine ecosystems are understood and valued as the foundation for abundant and diverse marine life. Communities across New Zealand are active stewards of their local marine ecosystems and benefit from well managed and sustainable ocean and land use.
Explore and Discover with Us
We showcase and document the incredible marine life of our coast. At our events, you can:
Dive, snorkel, or swim along with us to explore underwater wonders or discover rockpools and marine life from the shore.
Experience kelp forests, sponge gardens, and come face-to-face with local marine life — in the water or virtually without getting wet!
Learn from marine scientists and experts about the hidden treasures of New Zealand’s coast.
Join Us or Support Our Work
Connect with us to learn more, join an event, or support our efforts to protect New Zealand’s coastal marine ecosystems. Get in touch here.
Wellington's Kelp Forests
We are diving and filming 70km of coastline of our capital city Wellington and collect crucial data to stop and reverse the decline of local kelp forests. Read more here.
Discover what lies beneath the waves of
Find out more and follow us on Facebook for details and updates on event days.