Experiencing Marine Reserves (EMR) is a national programme of experiential learning about marine conservation. Our umbrella registered charity is Mountains to Sea Conservation Trust. Our coordinators are qualified snorkel instructors with conservation & education backgrounds.
EMR’s independence, professional delivery, marine reserves focus and provision of a range of learning styles make it unique within New Zealand.
Since its introduction in Northland in 2002, programme uptake has continued to increase throughout the country. The Department of Conservation (DOC) is a foundation partner of the Mountains to Sea Conservation Trust, and has supported the development of the EMR programme since 2002.The Tindall Foundation now also supports the programme’s national expansion. EMR provides quality first-hand marine education experiences and initiatives to schools and communities throughout New Zealand. The aim of the EMR programme is to raise awareness, understanding and involvement in marine conservation.
Imagine snorkeling amongst a dense kelp forest, surrounded by dozens of fascinating new life forms, a frenzy is created on top of the water, someone has spotted a crayfish, everyone is taking turns to dive under to get a glimpse of a Cray crouching under a ledge. Students come up gasping for breath, but feel rest assured by their adult, buddy and bright yellow body board for time out. Some large snapper cruise past to see what the fuss is about. Gurgle sounds come from a snorkel, an eagle ray rests on the sand below. The kids are easy to spot in their bright yellow & black wetsuits. The parents come in buzzing, the kids madly tell their mates about how big the snapper they saw was and how many different fish they saw, this is normal conversation during Experiencing Marine Reserves (EMR) programme delivery.
