Students in NCEA level 3 Sea Sports were rewarded this week after the culmination of a term’s worth of diligent mahi by becoming certified open water divers. The students began their learning in the classroom, learning about the physics and physiology of SCUBA theory followed by the process of equipment assembly. This was accompanied by practical snorkeling sessions around the motu where students learned about equalization techniques and many other SCUBA skills.

After successfully completing their initial skills practice in the controlled environment of a swimming pool, the students traveled to the Goat Island Marine Reserve for their qualifying dives. Conditions at the reserve were far from tropical, however, the students got on with it and showed some impressive perseverance and discipline to get through all four dives over two days with the team from Epic Scuba.

The SSI Open Water certification is a significant achievement, granting these young divers the certification to dive at depths of up to 18 metres anywhere in the world. As they look toward their futures beyond secondary school, these students now carry a qualification that reflects their bravery, technical skill, and connection to the moana.

Well done to all the newly certified divers!