Fulfill your desire to explore and adventure in, on and under the water.
Embrace the opportunity to connect with like-minded wāhine.
Learn new skills and experience the ocean with us!

What is WOW and who is it for:

Wāhine on Water is an opportunity for females between the ages of 18-24yrs, who are living on the North Shore of Auckland. This program is made affordable through targeted funding from Harbour Sport. Through participation in this event series, you’ll have the opportunity to learn new skills and join a community of other North Shore wāhine learning how to safely participate in ocean recreation.

Knowledgeable leaders from the Sir Peter Blake Marine Education and Recreation Centre will support participants to take part in adventurous water activities, gain new skills and knowledge of a range of ocean sports and activities. Participate in kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, surfing, snorkelling, freediving and sailing.

No experience is necessary, the most important thing you need is a passion for the ocean and a can-do attitude. All necessary equipment and gear will be provided.

If you cannot commit to the full 6-month program, live in another part of Auckland, or are outside of the age bracket, we are offering single tickets for each session. See our other events for more details or email office@merc.org.nz with your questions.

What's included in the WOW membership:

Sunday sessions (x6)

Once a month we will gather at MERC in Long Bay, where will have 4-hour educational and informative sessions to prepare you to confidently head out on the water. Then we’ll get out there and do it! Ocean skills will be developed, building an understanding of the role of weather systems influencing sea conditions. We will provide all the necessary equipment, risk management and a chance to bond with like-minded wāhine. Sunday sessions integrate learning with connecting to your environment. Activities will be determined the day prior as they are dependent on ocean conditions.

Dates fall on the last Sunday of each month, from February onwards:
22 January / 26 February / 26 March / 30 April / 28 May / 25 June

Overnight Adventures

Multi-activity overnight trips (2x)

Exploring in our blue backyard - Long Bay-Okura
March 18th-19th from 10 am Sat to 4 pm Sun (staying in accommodation- MERC bunk rooms)
A whole weekend of water activities utilising the gear at our beachfront facility. An opportunity to explore the Long Bay-Okura Marine Reserve and the regional park. Connect with WoW members through the evening with campfire chats and marshmallow roasting.

Adventures at Tāwharanui Regional Park
April 1st- 2nd from 10 am Sat to 2 pm Sun (tent camping)
Participate in outdoor adventurous activities such as paddleboarding, kayaking, and surfing (dependent on conditions). Experience the Tāwharanui Marine Reserve through snorkelling and hike the beautiful tracks of the Regional Park. Camp overnight at the seaside campground within the regional park, go for a night walk and look for kiwi!

Plus the opportunity to participate in the following overnight activities!

There is a small extra cost if you would like to participate in multiple overnight trips.

Sea kayak & Camp - 18/19 Feb
Stay tuned for details about this adventure- the location yet to be decided!

Say 'Hello' to the Fishes - 29/30 April
Adventure to Cape Rodney-Okakari Marine Reserve (Goat Island) for fun in and on the water, camping at nearby Pakiri Beach.

Surf Camp - May 13/14
Join us for 2x surf lessons & some camping next to the beach – location TBC

Harnessing the Wind - 10/11 June
Learn to sail, then take a journey through the Long Bay-Okura marine reserve, exploring a little slice of the Hauraki Gulf. Pack your things up and sail over to your campsite for the night.

Stay connected to the Wāhine on Water community through this Facebook group.

This project is made possible through the allocation of Tu Munawa Fund, Harbour Sport and Sir Peter Blake MERC.

Please be aware we will not provide refunds for "change of mind"