A highlight of the year for many Biology students is the Level 2 Bio trip to the University of Auckland, Leigh Marine Lab and Goat Island Marine reserve, New Zealand’s oldest marine reserve.

On a beautiful day last week, excited students left the classroom and headed 100 kilometres north of Auckland to the reserve.

The Leigh Marine  Lab undertakes important research to support the flourishing aquaculture industries in New Zealand. In addition, they research the effects of fishing and the ecological pattern of trophic cascade. Students had the opportunity to learn about the latest research, explore details of local species they are studying, and even see and handle creatures such as kina, octopuses, and crayfish.

Students delighted in snorkelling at Goat Island among swarming schools of fish, including Snapper, Blue Maomao, and  Red Moki. To see two giant Eagle Rays glide past was truly amazing for students.

The information they have gathered from this trip will be invaluable for students completing NCEA assessments.