Explore Nature brings families to Momorangi Bay
Envirohub Marlborough were a co-host of last year’s Momorangi Family Day. Photo: Supplied.
AMY RUSS
The Sounds are set to come alive with learning, exploration, and community connection as Envirohub Marlborough and Conservation Kids host Explore Nature at Momorangi Bay.
The annual celebration of Aotearoa New Zealand’s oceans – Kaupapa Moana – offers families a chance to discover the interwoven ecosystems that make the Sounds so unique.
“We want families to see how the health of the awa, moana, tātahi, and ngahere are all connected,” says Tash Luxton, Co-Founder and Trustee of Envirohub Marlborough and Conservation Kids NZ.
“By exploring these habitats, people develop a deeper appreciation for the natural world and can start thinking about how to care for it in their everyday lives.”
Visitors can pick up an event passport and explore a series of interactive stations representing the four habitats of Momorangi Bay: freshwater streams, ocean waters, the beach, and forest. Local experts and environmental organisations guide hands-on activities and demonstrations, sharing insights into the plants, wildlife, and ecological processes that thrive in each environment.
Hosted in collaboration with Te Ātiawa Trust, as an extension of Sea Week, the event is designed to allow families to move between stations at their own pace, ask questions, and engage directly with the natural world.
“Everyone is welcome, from tamariki to adults,” Tash adds. “It’s not just about learning facts – it’s about experiencing the ecosystems and forming a personal connection with them. That connection is what inspires long-term care for our whenua and moana.”
By highlighting the links between freshwater, forest, beach, and ocean environments, the event underscores how the health of one habitat affects the others. Organisers hope this hands-on approach will give families a better understanding of conservation work and encourage them to become kaitiaki of their own backyards.
“Bringing whānau, local groups, and environmental organisations together strengthens community connections and creates a shared sense of responsibility for our environment. We hope that people leave the event inspired to spend more time in nature and to continue supporting efforts that protect the Sounds for future generations.”
The event, which takes place from 10am until 2pm on Saturday March 21 at Momorangi Bay, is made possible by the sponsorship of Waikawa Dive Centre, Seaweek, Rata Foundation and Port Marlborough.
All enquiries to [email protected]