Ready to step into something new? Join the awesome team from the Sir Peter Blake Marine Education and Recreation Centre (MERC) for an unforgettable day of beach exploration and rocky shore investigations! Whether this is your first time experiencing tidepools or you're a coastline veteran just keen to get outdoors, this hands-on experience will have you discovering the wonders of the coastline, learning how to spot and identify fascinating marine life, uncover hidden treasures along the beach, and safely explore rocky shore habitats.

With plenty of fun challenges and guided exploration, you’ll put your new skills into action as you investigate the shoreline, work as a team, and connect with the incredible marine environment right on your doorstep. Contribute to citizen science by taking part in an iNaturalist bioblitz during your exploration!

We gratefully acknowledge Rodney Local Board for their support in making this event possible.

Important Notes

➜ 🚸 Suitable for all ages, children under 15 need adult supervision during the entire event.

➜ 🏃‍♂️ There is some walking on sand to get to the rock pools.

➜ 🪨 Exploring the rock pools requires walking on uneven ground and over slippery rocks.

➜ ⚠️ On the day of the event, all participants (or their guardians) must sign risk disclosures before taking part.

➜ 🌧️ This event is weather permitting. Rain date is Sunday 16th. The event will run with light rain.

What should you bring?

🧣 Warm clothes

🥾 Footwear that can get wet

🤳 And if you want to document what you see, a camera/phone (be careful, water and cameras don't mix, and MERC takes no responsibility for broken gear) Download iNaturalist before you get there.

🔍 Your childlike sense of exploration and wonder

Why come to our exploration day?

Guided exploration: MERC leaders are experienced intertidal explorers who can guide you and your family through the rocks and tidepools, pointing out marine organisms and answering your questions!

Peace of mind: with MERC providing first aid kits and health and safety experience of a registered Outdoor Activity Provider

Marine science for all ages: Whether you're a little one excited about seeing crabs or an adult asking about coastal protection, your leaders can give scientifically accurate explanations to all your questions.

Participate in citizen science: Contribute to biodiversity data by loading observations to iNaturalist.

Be a part of community action: to educate all on the importance of protecting these amazing habitats.

FREE Rock Pooling & Scavenger Hunt - Tāwharanui - 18 Apr 2027

Choose your tickets

Rock Pooling & Scavenger Hunt ticket