Educational Experiences

The Marine Reserve and Wildlife Sanctuary Experience $25 per student This 2-hour trip is our exciting new addition to the education program and combines exploration of the Double Cove Marine Reserve and Kaipupu Point Wildlife Sanctuary and the surrounding seashore with a short ocean cruise. Our learning adventure begins at the E-ko Tours classroom in Picton. We then board the boat and head out to Kaipupu Point Sanctuary where we disembark and explore the fascinating flora and fauna of the area. Education Officers will ensure and assist students to complete a variety of conservation based, fun learning activities addressing the important principles that Kaipupu Point Sanctuary is established upon. The E-Ko Marine Adventure $35 per student This quality 3 hour ocean adventure is a great chance for kids and parents to have fun learning about the amazing wildlife of the Queen Charlotte Sound. Our education staff will begin the experience by preparing students for the day’s adventure with a short introduction and educational presentation. Each child will be supplied with a ‘Species Checklist’ and as we cruise through the Queen Charlotte Sound, we will endeavour to see as many species on that list as possible. The Motuara Island Expedition $40 per student This quality 4 hour island and ocean adventure is a great chance for kids to have fun while learning about the amazing wildlife of the Marlborough Sounds! We begin our experience at the E-ko Tours classroom in Picton. Before we board the boat our Education staff prepare students for the day’s adventure with a short introduction and educational presentation. During the cruise and on the way out to Motuara Island Bird Sanctuary, students search for, study and learn about the rare and interesting wildlife encountered. On the island they join our education staff exploring the predator free sanctuary and discovering a variety of endangered species. After hours of fun and learning it’s time to head for home. The Whale Exploration Experience $40 per student From the legend of Paikea to Perano Station, this 4 hour learning adventure is a great chance for kids to learn all about whales! From the history of whaling to the importance of their conservation in today’s world, students have the rare chance to explore the Perano Whaling Station and learn about New Zealand and whales and current conservation initiatives. During the Queen Charlotte Sound cruise and on the way out to Perano Station, students also enjoy the added bonus of learning about the rare and interesting wildlife encountered. Along the way, students discuss their ideas and impressions while completing a variety of conservation based activities. Ship Cove for Kids $40 per student This 4-hour trip is a fantastic chance for students to learn about the flora, fauna AND history of the Marlborough Sounds! We begin our learning adventure at the E-Ko Tours classroom in Picton. Before we board the boat our education staff prepares students for the day’s adventure with a short introduction & an educational presentation. During the cruise and on the way out to Ship Cove, students search for, study and learn about the rare and interesting wildlife encountered. Once at Ship Cove we explore the rich Maori and European history of this unique area, studying the many information boards and utilising the purpose built seating and whare. It is here that captain James Cook repaired his boats and Sir Joseph Banks spent days cataloguing  the beautiful flora and fauna. Students will have the opportunity to taste the fresh spring water that was used to brew the first beer in New Zealand! If you are interested in any of these tours, or would like us to create a bespoke package for your group, contact us and tell us about your educational group.