Join us for an immersive virtual experience as we embark on the NZ SeaWeek | Virtual Voyage: New Brighton's Sperm Whale Stranding via VR, presented by we.are.tohorā.

In collaboration with Daniel Manchester, a skilled drone pilot, we invite you to explore the recent Sperm Whale stranding on the beach of South New Brighton through the lens of cutting-edge Virtual Reality (VR) technology.

In memory of the male sperm whale "Te koha au te ata hapara - Gift from the morning light", stranded November 2023, South New Brighton.

🔍 Experience this local stranding from a different angle & learn about whales and strandings:

Expand your knowledge about whales and the science behind strandings. Discover the complexities of marine life, their behaviors, and the factors contributing to strandings. Our experts will be on hand to provide valuable information, answering your questions and fostering a deeper understanding of these incredible creatures.

Koha based event.

About the hosts:

we.are.tohorā:

Dedicated environmentally conscious business that is focused on raising awareness about whales, offering immersive events and generating funds for conservation efforts. We aspire to create a world inspired by whales and led by community and cooperation – where whales, the environment and people are valued, respected and protected.

Daniel Manchester:

Certified drone pilot and reality capture specialist. With permission granted to fly over the whale stranding operations here in Ōtautahi - Christchurch, a 3D model with Hi Res imagery was created of the whales for scientific analysis of their markings and measurements.

About NZ SeaWeek:

New Zealand SeaWeek, commonly known as NZ SeaWeek, is an annual event dedicated to celebrating and raising awareness about the marine environment and its significance in New Zealand. This week-long initiative typically takes place to promote ocean conservation, sustainable practices, and the rich biodiversity found in the coastal areas of New Zealand. The event is a platform for various activities, initiatives, and educational programs aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of the ocean and its ecosystems.