Browsing: New Zealand

It’s unnerving to think that each year, hundreds of whales and dolphins strand on the shores of New Zealand. In fact, New Zealand has the highest stranding rate in the world. Some are sick or injured; others are perfectly healthy and need a helping hand back into the water. 300 strand in New Zealand each year and mass stranding can also be common, which can involve 100s of animals at a time. But if you were to see a beached whale how many of us actually know how to help these magnificent marine mammals get back to the water?

Each year, hundreds of whales and dolphins strand on our shores. Whilst some are sick or injured, others are healthy and just need a helping hand back out to sea. But saving whales isn’t as easy as it looks and successful rescue often depends on properly trained volunteers. That’s where you come in.

If you had told me in 2009 when I was getting my Open Water that one day, I would train to be a PADI Dive Master, I wouldn’t have believed it! I started diving as a teacher on a school camp, and I really didn’t think it would be something I’d continue with. As an older (30+) female with a young family and a full time job, it seemed like a pretty selfish and expensive recreational activity (despite me loving the whole experience!)

Excitement reigns as preparations are underway for PADI Women’s Dive Day 2016, PADI’s second annual celebration of women in diving, taking place on 16 July 2016. This event recognize women’s contributions to diving throughout history and provides special opportunities for more women to enter the sport of diving today.