We were very lucky to have Riley Hathaway, Young Ocean Explorer, come and visit us on Tuesday. She was so inspiring and passionate, sharing her knowledge, experience and videos about the Hauraki Gulf. We were amazed by the wonderful creatures living in our ocean. We are currently undertaking a 21 day challenge, a Young Ocean Explorers initiative. During this time the children will be learning, thinking, creating and taking action to care for the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park / Ko te Pātaka kai o Tīkapa Moana Te Moananui-ā-Toi. The goal is for each child to pick up at least 1 piece of plastic for 21 days. We can all make a difference to our local environment and protect our beautiful ocean. Let's all do this together! We Are Young Ocean Explorers!

On Monday, Riley Hathaway from ‘Young Ocean Explorers’ visited Milford School to speak to the students and teachers about the importance of taking care of our oceans.
Riley also promoted the 21 Day Challenge that many NZ children are taking part in. It challenges each child to pick up a piece of plastic each day to stop them going into the ocean. This challenge also promotes that each child has the power to make a difference.
Riley’s father, Steve Hathaway, is an underwater camera-man, so Riley has grown up knowing about the ocean, its beauty and importance.
It was very special to actually meet Riley and I enjoyed her photos and videos about the oceans around NZ, particularly out in the Hauraki Gulf.
I think that all the students loved having Riley at our school and are now more inspired to help keep our oceans clean and plastic free.
By Esther (Y2)