In celebration of New Zealand Seaweek, the Victoria University Coastal Ecology Laboratory in Island Bay is holding its annual open day and giving visitors an insight into the life of a marine biologist.
Between 10am and 3pm, visitors will be able to see marine creatures up close and learn about the interesting biology of the marine animals and plants on display.
Dr Jeff Shima, Director of the Coastal Ecology Laboratory, says there will be something for all ages.
“We’ll have interactive displays of our latest research, a competition to determine the age of fish from their earbones, and a scavenger hunt for our younger guests,” he says.
Experts and specialist researchers will be on hand to answer questions, provide information about a range of exhibits and assist with self-guided tours. There will also be a display of the equipment marine researchers use to study sea life.
This year’s Seaweek theme is ‘Look beneath the surface – Papatai ō roto – Papatai ō raro’. Dr Shima says the open day provides that opportunity for visitors, both figuratively and literally.
“Our staff and students do fascinating work and look forward to this opportunity to share their methods and discoveries with the public. Our open day is a unique chance to get a glimpse of what life under the sea is like.”
What: The Victoria University Coastal Ecology Laboratory open day
Where: 396 The Esplanade, Island Bay, Wellington
When: 10am–3pm,Saturday 7 March 2015
For details about Seaweek events and activities visit www.seaweek.org.nz/wellington
For more information on the Coastal Ecology Lab, including a virtual tour, visit www.victoria.ac.nz/vucel