Wāhine On Water in Hibiscus and Bays

About

Wāhine on Water – Free Ocean Adventure Programme for Girls Aged 11–19 in Hibiscus and Bays.

MERC is proud to partner with Out and About Auckland and the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board to deliver the exciting Wāhine on Water programme — an empowering ocean experience designed for girls aged 11–19 living in the Hibiscus and Bays area (Waiwera to Campbells Bay).

This free programme invites young women to connect with the ocean through fun, confidence-building sessions that foster community, adventure, and a deeper connection to our beautiful local beaches.

We are offering 12 action-packed events from January to April 2026, that will get participants to explore four ocean-based activities — kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, giant SUP, and sailing — held across three stunning coastal locations.

No prior experience is needed — all equipment and safety gear are provided. Just bring your togs, a towel, and an adventurous spirit!

Each session will be led by MERC’s experienced Wāhine outdoor educators, creating a safe, supportive, and empowering space for women, run by women.

Events are themed by water activity type: Giant Paddleboards, Single paddleboards, Sailing and Kayaking.

There are three event locations: Orewa, Mairangi Bay and Long Bay. Timing differs between events due to the tides.

Some tickets will be available now, and others will be released 2 weeks before the event (subject to availability).

Hostinformation

Sir Peter Blake MERC

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Since 1990, MERC has been a trusted not-for-profit charity (CC29903) dedicated to transforming lives through marine-based environmental education and outdoor adventures. Nestled beside the ocean at the southern end of Long Bay Beach in Auckland — right at the interface of the Long Bay–Okura Marine Reserve and the Long Bay Regional Park — we invite learners of every age, stage and ability to connect with Aotearoa’s marine environment in meaningful ways.

At MERC we believe that discovery, leadership and sustainability go hand-in-hand. Whether it’s a school group exploring rocky shores, a corporate team bonding through paddle craft, a family making memories by the sea, or the community stepping outside its usual environment, our programmes are designed to challenge, inspire and instil a deeper appreciation for the ocean and its ecosystems.