More than 200 students, educators, scientists, conservation practitioners and members of the public came together at Tūranga during Seaweek 2026 for a week-long celebration of ocean literacy, marine conservation and immersive learning.

Led by Blue Cradle Foundation in partnership with Christchurch City Libraries and a wide range of community organisations, the programme transformed Tūranga into a hub for ocean discovery, bringing together science, storytelling, technology and hands-on learning experiences.

Throughout the week, students from Te Aratai College, Tuia Burnside and Ao Tawhiti Unlimited Discovery participated in Blue Schools field trips, rotating through a series of interactive activities designed to deepen their understanding of the ocean and their connection to it.

Highlights included the Immersive Ocean Literacy Lab, a panoramic projection experience exploring humanity’s relationship with the ocean through UNESCO’s Ocean Literacy Principles, Minecraft Education activities focused on marine reserves and penguin conservation delivered by Technology Education New Zealand (TENZ), and creative LEGO challenges encouraging students to imagine solutions for healthier marine environments.

Seaweek also featured three evening public events that brought together experts, educators, storytellers and community members to discuss ocean conservation, climate change, marine protected areas and the role of ocean literacy in shaping a more sustainable future.

The week concluded with Moana Discovery Day, a free family event that welcomed visitors of all ages to engage with marine science, conservation initiatives, interactive displays and community exhibits from organisations working to protect and better understand our oceans.

The programme was delivered through a collaborative effort involving Blue Cradle Foundation, Christchurch City Libraries, Christchurch City Council, Antarctica New Zealand, BLAKE, Technology Education New Zealand (TENZ), AS Built, New Zealand Geographic, Imagination Station, Pohatu Penguins and numerous volunteers, educators and community partners.

Seaweek 2026 also provided the setting for a University of Canterbury PhD research study exploring how immersive experiences can strengthen emotional connections to the ocean and support ocean literacy outcomes.

James Nikitine, Founder of Blue Cradle Foundation, said the success of the week reflected the strength of collaboration across Christchurch’s education, science and community sectors.

“One of the highlights was seeing students, families, scientists, educators, conservation practitioners and community organisations learning alongside one another. Seaweek demonstrated the power of collaboration and showed how immersive experiences, storytelling and hands-on learning can help build stronger connections with the ocean.”

Blue Cradle Foundation extends its sincere thanks to all schools, speakers, volunteers, partners and participants who helped make Seaweek 2026 a success.

Contact:
James Nikitine
Founder, Blue Cradle Foundation
james@bluecradle.org

Lyn Malakou
Christchurch City Libraries
Lyn.Malakou@ccc.govt.nz