Between 10 am and 3 pm, visitors of all ages can interact with marine creatures, see research equipment in action, ask the ecology lab researchers anything they’ve ever wanted to know about marine life, and learn about marine biology research from interactive displays.

“We really enjoy the opportunity to engage with folks in the local community on our coastal research,” says Associate Professor Nicole Phillips, director of the Coastal Ecology Lab. “It’s basically their backyard, so people are very curious and often passionate about the marine environment—and so are we!”

“This event gives our researchers and visitors the chance to share our discoveries and how we go about trying to answer some challenging questions.  Of course, the touch tank is always immensely popular as well, because it’s a chance to not only see and touch these fascinating marine creatures but learn about them as well.”

The annual Open Day is the only time the laboratory is open to the public.

The Open Day is part of Seaweek, an annual event run by the New Zealand Association for Environmental Education (NZAEE), which aims to inspire New Zealanders to care for and connect with the sea. Seaweek runs from 29 February—8 March 2020 and involves a variety of events for all ages across New Zealand.

“Events like the Open Day and Seaweek are a great way to get people thinking about the serious issues that affect our marine environment,” Associate Professor Phillips says.

What: Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington’s Coastal Ecology Lab Open Day
When: 10 am—3 pm, Saturday 7 March 2020
Where: 396 The Esplanade, Island Bay
Cost: Free—bring a gold coin for the sausage sizzle
RSVP: No booking required

For details about Seaweek events and activities visit https://www.seaweek.org.nz/

For more information about Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington’s Coastal Ecology Lab or the Open Day visit their website or contact Associate Professor Nicole Phillips at nicole.phillips@vuw.ac.nz.