Question 1

What age is Ocean Youth Aotearoa aimed at?

Accepted Answer

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/

Question 2

Can I sign up for one day?

Accepted Answer

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 no single-day option.

Question 3

Where do I drop off and pick up my child?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 4

What is the staff to student ratio?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 5

Are your staff trained?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 6

Do I need to know anything to join this programme?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 7

Do I need to be a strong swimmer?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 8

Do I need to have my own snorkel equipment?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 9

What clothing and swimwear is recommended?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 10

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

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 11

What do I need to bring each day?

Accepted Answer

A backpack with your food and drink bottle along with suitable footwear and clothing and any personal items that you require such as medication.

Ocean Youth Aotearoa

Empowering young leaders for a sustainable future

What will I be doing on the programme?

Exploring the ocean

Working with marine scientists

Learning new skills

Meeting like-minded people

Creating your own project or idea

And more!

Testimonials

Upcoming programmes

Frequently asked questions