Ocean Youth Aotearoa: Spring Programme 2026

FAQs

• What age is Ocean Youth Aotearoa aimed at?

  Young people aged 13-17 years

  For young people aged 8-12 years old we recommend the Explorers Programme delivered by our friends Young Ocean Explorers:

  https://www.youngoceanexplorers.com/explorers/

• Do I need to know anything to join this programme?

  Absolutely not. We recognise participants will come from different learning levels and our team will create an environment to make all learners comfortable and engaged.

• Do I need to be a strong swimmer?

  Programmes held in warmer months may have snorkeling and swimming components. These days have extra measures and staff in place to ensure your safety. However, we recommend that you can comfortably swim from one end of a pool and back (50 m) and can tread water for two minutes.

• I want to be a marine biologist/conservationist/diver. Will this programme help me?

  Definitely. We have a variety of partners with different careers and skills who will be leading different days on the programme. We will have Q&A sessions with these partners at the end of each day, so you can learn how they got into their job, and what you can do to achieve the same goal.

• Can I sign up for one day?

  Ocean Youth Aotearoa is a 5-day programme across one week where young people will forge relationships and work on a project idea to take back to their community.  Unfortunately, there is currently no single-day option but we will explore this in future.

• Where do I drop off and pick up my child?

  The programme has been designed to start and finish at SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s each day as much as possible to provide a consistent location for drop off and pick up. This may change depending on the activity of the day, but will generally be in Auckland CBD or close to the aquarium.

• What is the staff to student ratio?

  A 1:6 ratio with 3 facilitators and 17 participants. This will increase to 1:3 during certain activities (e.g., snorkelling) in line with our health and safety policy.

• Are your staff trained?

  We use the NZ Police Vetting service. Our team of facilitators are trained first-aiders, and where driving occurs this will be under a full driver’s license. The programme leaders are guided by a qualified education expert with knowledge of the NCEA curriculum and latest teaching methods.

• Do I need my own snorkel equipment?

  Programmes held in warmer months that have snorkeling components will have all equipment provided. However, you are welcome to bring your own gear if you prefer.

• What clothing and swimwear is recommended?

  Sea temperatures in January range from 17 to 22 degrees celsius and wetsuits will be provided.  You will need to bring your swimwear, a towel and something warm for afterwards.

  Auckland weather is unpredictable, so bring an outer layer that can deal with rain and a bit of cold weather. A hat is also recommended.

• What do I need to bring each day?

  A backpack with your food and drink bottle along with suitable footwear and clothing and any personal items that you require such as medication. The programme leaders will advise you if any particular clothing or items (e.g., wet weather gear, sunscreen) are needed.