Mangawhai’s connection to the ocean runs deep, and during Seaweek that connection was on full display. Locals came together to clean up our beaches and streets, and learn more about the marine world that surrounds us. It was a week that highlighted the beauty of our coastline, and the strong community spirit that helps protect it.
The MAZ Clean-Up Crew and the Mangawhai Sailing Club joined forces for a special Seaweek edition of their monthly clean-up, clearing litter from beaches, estuary edges, and streets before it could reach the ocean. We had a fantastic turnout, with 50 volunteers getting involved.
Mangawhai Sailing Club helped sort the ride with three boats, while teams of volunteers spread out across the sand spit, picking up a wide range of litter on the ocean side. Other volunteers kept their feet dry, collecting litter around local streets.
After a morning of hard work, everyone enjoyed a well-earned breakfast laid on by Amanda and the team from Bunnings Mangawhai, who also generously donated the BBQ to MAZ. A special thanks also goes to Kent and Ethan at the MAZ Café for keeping the volunteers fueled with coffee.
The clean-up crew meets on the first Sunday of every month, and everyone is welcome to join. The team are now looking to the future and are hoping to make this a regular occurrence!
Stories from the Sea with Steve Hathaway
Later in the week, our community gathered for an evening with award winning underwater film maker Steve Hathaway. We dived into the wonders of the ocean and the pressing issues it faces. Steve’s stories of marine life and adventure were captivating. It was a truly entertaining and inspiring evening!
The event attracted over 100 attendees and created a real buzz in the room. We also managed to raise $280 in koha for Young Ocean Explorers, supporting their work inspiring young people to understand and care for the ocean. One of the real highlights was seeing both children and adults rush up to Steve at the end of the talk with more questions and curiosity about the ocean, people of all ages engaged and inspired. The excitement and interest in the room carried on well after the presentation finished. Thanks to Steve for sharing his work with us, Thanks to The Mangawhai Golf Club for generously hosting us and for Seaweek for funding the event.
Why Seaweek matters
Seaweek encourages us to reflect on our impact, engage and to care for the oceans that sustain us. The week reminds us to celebrate our connection to the sea.
For Mangawhai, Seaweek is an opportunity to show how our community cares for the ocean, how it can be creative, visible, and genuinely impactful. We hope the energy from these feel-good events continues to grow in the months and years ahead.
For updates on future events in Mangawhai, visit Sustainable Kaipara’s Facebook page. If you have an idea for Seaweek or would like to get involved next year email charlie@sustainablekaipara.org.
Written by Charlie Priestley
