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Dive into Ngā Huhua: Abundance

Immerse yourself in the deep blue of Te Moana-nui-a-Toi: the outer islands of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park.

Matariki and Te Moana-nui-a-Toi 

Dive into the final weeks of Ngā Huhua: Abundance and explore the rich biodiversity of Te Moana-nui-a-Toi and the outer islands of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park.

One of the stars in the Matariki cluster, Waitā is connected to the ocean, its shifting moods and tides, and the diverse lifeforms that call it home. When Waitā shines brightly, it signals a plentiful season for kaimoana, while its presence also offers insight into ocean health and marine conditions for the year ahead.

Discover both the beauty and the wero (challenges) facing Te Moana-nui-a-Toi, and learn about the important work being led by local groups, including mana whenua Ngāti Rehua Ngātiwai ki Aotea. Add your voice to the future of our oceans by sharing your hopes and wishes for the year ahead, to be displayed in our kupenga.

Ocean Literacy and Te Moana-nui-a-Toi | Learning Trail

What species and stories shape the abundance of Te Moananui-a-Toi?

Launching our ocean literacy programme, explore Ngā Huhua: Abundance and discover the incredible biodiversity of Te Moananui-a-Toi, the outer islands of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park. Choosing from either a guided or self-guided trail, students will journey through the exhibition, beginning with an immersive introduction to this deep blue environment and the species that call it home, from plankton to whai rahi (oceanic manta rays), tohorā (Bryde’s whales) and seabirds like tākoketai (black petrel).

Along the way, students will learn about the history of Ngāti Rehua Ngātiwai ki Aotea, mana whenua of the area, and explore how mātauranga Māori and scientific research work together to understand and protect this unique ecosystem. Interactive displays highlight the threats facing the Gulf, including climate change, pollution and habitat loss, before concluding with stories of marine protection and how we can all take action.

Ocean Literacy and Te Moana-nui-a-Toi Resources

This Matariki, Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland’s cultural institutions come together to share the stars

Six of Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland’s leading cultural organisations have collaborated to bring schools a suite of Matariki education programmes – each one rooted in te ao Māori and woven around the nine whetū of the Matariki cluster. Consider one, several or all to give your tamariki a truly connected journey through the stars!

Explore the suite and book your school’s EOTC experience today

Each programme has been developed independently but speaks to a shared kaupeka – a unified season of learning that honours Matariki as a time of reflection, connection and growth. From ECE to Years 0-8 and beyond, there’s a programme designed for your ākonga. Click through to discover what we are offering this Matariki season: Auckland War Memorial Museum, MOTAT, Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, Te Whatu Stardome and Auckland Zoo.

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