Seal of approval for open day

A free family day out focusing on Marlborough’s seaside seal neighbours hopes to inspire a lifelong passion for protecting the environment.

Conservation Kids NZ Kekeno/Fur Seal open day will be held at Ward Community Hall and out on the beach this Saturday 31st August.

With information, conservation, fun and games for the whole family, Envirohub Marlborough’s Ailie Suzuki hopes the special day will inspire the next generation.

“Conservation Kids NZ and Envirohub Marlborough have a core strategy to ensure all our tamariki and families in Marlborough have the chance to experience their own natural backyard.

“Psychological studies show that if a child is encouraged in a passion at a young age, they keep pursuing it, and we want our Marlborough tamariki to really enjoy their natural world and grow up with an enthusiasm toward protecting it.”

Ailie says the health of fur seal populations is a sign of the health of their surrounding environments, as they are high in the local aquatic food chain.

“South Marlborough borders the nutrient rich seas of the Kaikōura coastline, so you see more seals around the coastline here - in the Marlborough Sounds.

“We often see an increase in seal numbers during the cooler months, with young and old males coming to feed away from the colonies where they are not welcome by the dominant males, their females and pups.”

While there will hopefully be the chance to see seals on the day, continued vigilance on the animals is still needed, Ailie says.

“We can take care of our plastic waste and keep our 25m distance, especially on land to ensure you and Kekeno both feel safe.”

“It’s normal for seals to cough and splutter and come onto land to rest, but if you see one in trouble like in a net, call DOC’s HOTline on 0800 362 468

Register online at https://www.envirohub.co.nz/event-details/cknz-save-our-species-kekeno