Pamapuria School participated on the EMR programme in term 4, 2009. The year 7 and 8 students took to the water like fishes. First in the school pool, then taking the plunge in the open water at Maitai Bay. It was a beautiful day enjoyed by all. The sun was shining and 9 parents came along for the day to support the in water activities of the students. The students showed off their safe snorkeling skills learnt in the pool. Maitai Bay really put on a show, with Purple Octopus, Large Trumpet Shells, Kahawai and even juvenille Snapper making appearances. The students did notice the large amount of kina and lack of kelp in the area where we snorkeled.
The year 7 and 8 students carried out thier marine reserve experience at Goat Island over two days in November, 2009 with the assistance of 9 parent helpers on their school camp. All enjoyed their Goat Island experience. For many it was thier first experience of a marine reserve. "These students can now appreciate how we are so lucky here in New Zealand, as well as me!" one parent commented. Several students left the marine reserve experience wishing to share what they had learnt with their families, as well as the rest of the Far North community! "When I get back to school I want to write an article for the newspaper with photos so everyone will believe how amazing marine reserves are".
Students of Pamapuria carried out fantastic actions, including a talk with the local marine protection group. Preparing letters of support for marine reserves, planning to visit the local marine protection in place at Ahipara, placing artwork in the shopfronts and public buildings of Kaitaia - all with a marine conservation message.
Pamapuria's EMR programme was funded by the Tindall Foundation. For more information and images please contact the EMR coordinator: nicki@emr.org.nz
