See below for a range of opportunities available for those who would like to learn more about sharks with the Marine Biology Department and the NZ Marine Studies Centre.

Conservation Week Events at the NZ Marine Studies Centre, Portobello
Get a close look at a 2.5 metre Sevengill Shark!

During Conservation Week join Marine Scientists to find out more about sharks, their role in the ecosystem and why they should be protected.

A large Sevengill Shark was found dead on a local beach late last year and everyone booking places for the Conservation Week Shark Programmes will get to see and touch it.

Sharks - Inside and Out Saturday 15 September, 10-11.30am, 12.30-2pm or 3-4.30pm
Participants will get a closer look at sharks from the inside out, helping to dissect a small shark to see what happens to food as it travels through its gut and examining the way it moves, breathes, reproduces and senses its environment. You will also see and touch a 2.5 metre Sevengill Shark and find out why we should protect these special animals. Recommended for adults and children over 5 years. Adults $15, Children $10, bookings essential: https://www.otago.ac.nz/marine-studies/news/events/otago693078.html

Sevengill Shark Dissection
Sunday 16 September, 2-5pm. A limited number of places will be available for the scientific dissection of the 2.5 metre Sevengill Shark which was washed up on Allans Beach on the Otago Peninsula in 2017 and retrieved by the NZ Marine Studies Centre to be used for research and education. This is a unique opportunity to find out more about these special marine predators. Please note that as this dissection takes place in an outdoor location (partially covered), participants need to dress warmly in wind-proof clothing, and it is unsuitable for younger children. Recommended for 12 years and up. $30 per person, bookings essential: https://www.otago.ac.nz/marine-studies/news/events/otago693078.html