Making the invisible visible
The ocean is full of extraordinary ecosystems and marine life, much of it hidden from view.
Explore Your Coast helps you discover the hidden world beneath the surface, understand the marine ecosystems on your doorstep, and act in meaningful ways to contribute to their future.
Ways you can connect with the ocean
Whether you’re curious to explore, keen to learn, interested in contributing to marine science, or looking to make a difference, there are many ways to get involved through Explore Your Coast:
- Events, workshops and coastal experiences
- School and education programmes
- Storytelling and film
- Immersive VR experiences
- Citizen science and marine monitoring
- Restoration and applied learning
- Engagement with decision-makers
Each experience helps build understanding, contribute knowledge, and support healthier marine ecosystems.
The ocean is changing — much of it unseen
The marine ecosystems that support Aotearoa New Zealand’s incredible coastal life are under increasing pressure from fishing, sedimentation, pollution, and climate change.
Because much of this change happens below the surface, it often goes unnoticed until habitats are degraded and marine life is lost.
Many New Zealanders care deeply about the ocean. The challenge is not a lack of concern, but a lack of opportunities to see what is happening beneath the surface, understand why it matters, and take part in solutions.
Our vision
An Aotearoa New Zealand where marine ecosystems are healthy, resilient, and thriving, and where people understand, value, and actively care for the ocean and marine life on their doorstep.
Where the ocean is woven into our identity and part of everyday life, and communities are actively involved in stewardship and restoration, with ocean health reflected in the decisions we make.
Be part of the change
Take part in protecting and restoring the ocean through Explore Your Coast:
- Join an event
- Explore your local coast
- Take part in citizen science
- Contribute to ocean-focused action
- Partner with us
- Support our work
Featured Project: Wellington's Kelp Forests
What is happening beneath the surface of Wellington’s coastline?
We are documenting 70km of coastline to better understand how local kelp forest ecosystems are changing and what supports their recovery.
By combining diving, storytelling, and marine science, this project helps make underwater ecosystems visible and contributes knowledge that can support long-term restoration. Read more here.
Discover what lies beneath the waves of
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