Ever wondered how what happens on the land affects the ocean? The Aquavan is bringing that connection to life! In this episode, we chat with Dr. Sally Carson, director of the New Zealand Marine Studies Centre, and Sarah Thorne from Thriving Southland about this unique mobile marine science experience. The Aquavan travels through Southland, Otago, and Canterbury, giving students and communities hands-on interactions with marine life—right in their own backyards.

We dive into why hands-on learning is so powerful, the eye-opening moments farmers and kids have had with the Aquavan, and how these sessions are sparking real change in how people think about their waterways. Plus, if you're keen to bring the Aquavan to your area, we’ve got the details on how to make it happen!

Key Takeaways:

• How the Aquavan is bridging the gap between freshwater and marine ecosystems through hands-on education.
• Why catchment groups, farmers, and communities are rallying behind this initiative.
• The impact of interactive learning—real stories from students and farmers seeing their waterways differently.

Want to get involved or bring the Aquavan to your school or community? Reach out to your local catchment group or Thriving Southland.

To find out more about the Aquavan and their ‘Discovering Our Coastal Connections schools programme’

Website: https://www.otago.ac.nz/marine-studies/learn-with-us/aquavan

To find out more about the University of Otago New Zealand Marine Studies Centre in Portobello, Otago

Website: https://www.otago.ac.nz/marine-studies

Connect with us at Thriving Southland

Website: https://www.thrivingsouthland.co.nz/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThrivingSouthland/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCERVHLoTWa0c4IL4BC4b_Kw

Email: [email protected]