Future marine guardians take plunge

A group prepares for a snorkel at Reotahi, with volunteer instructor Justin Welsh, right. Photo/Ron Burgin

Whangarei's shoreline will be well guarded judging by the response to guided snorkelling events this summer.

Individuals and families, including children of all ages, enjoyed Saturday's summer snorkelling series event at the Whangarei Harbour Marine Reserve Reotahi under the guidance of the Experiencing Marine Reserves environmental group.

The group's director Samara Nicholas said the annual guided snorkel trips were a feature of every summer.

By March last year, 494 people had taken advantage of snorkel tours at Reotahi and Smugglers Cove.

"Our Whangarei Harbour marine reserve at Reotahi is a fantastic educational resource for our community, and the snorkel days are a great way for people to connect with the ocean," Ms Nicholas said.

Most participants on Saturday were amazed at the variety of sea life at the reserve.