Moana Mark is a leading charitable organisation for marine research in Aotearoa New Zealand. Find out more about our mission, purpose and vision here.

Moana Mark

Moana
noun., a body of open water, in particular the sea.

+

Mark
noun., a lasting impact caused by meaningful action.

Our Mission

The oceans are in peril with climate change, pollution, and overfishing pushing marine life to the edge. Vital research is needed to protect our most vulnerable species.

Our mission is to connect individuals and businesses directly with marine research projects in Aotearoa New Zealand. With your support, we can make a difference.

Tourists inside a small plane on a scenic whale-watching flight with tour operator Wings Over Whales

Our purpose: Supporting hands-on conservation work, grounded by science, and guided by local knowledge

Our Vision

A humpback whales swims near the surface of the water

Our vision is that through Moana Mark, any business or individual can donate directly to marine research projects in Aotearoa New Zealand, helping to support sustainable tourism and make their mark in marine conservation.

Who We Are 

We’re a charitable organisation that brings together scientists, tourism businesses, and individuals who believe in a sustainable future for our moana. Based in Kaikōura, our work now reaches across the country.

We fund research that:

  • Protects marine species and habitats

  • Supports local and indigenous knowledge

  • Enables data-driven conservation

We were founded to meet a clear need: a way for individuals and businesses who care about our ocean, to give back and help protect it.

What We Do

Moana Mark enables individuals and businesses to sponsor marine research projects across Aotearoa New Zealand.

Your donation goes directly to initiatives focused on marine conservation, biodiversity, and sustainability. Moana Mark projects are grounded in science and your donation helps drive direct action.

Our partners include tourism businesses, scientists, students, and everyday ocean lovers who want to make an impact.

We connect people who care about our moana with the scientists working to protect it.

Two tourists in a kayak pointing to a seal in the water

Ready to support?

Whether you're an individual wanting to give back, or a business ready to lead in sustainable tourism, there's a way to make your mark.

A group of tourists in kayaks smile at the camera as they explore the Kaikoura coastline

Donate as an Individual

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Two planes belonging to South Pacific Helicopters fly over Kaikoura

Donate as a Business

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Project Spotlight

  • A sperm whale swims underwater along the Kaikoura coastline

    Sperm Whale Protection Project

    Long-term monitoring of sperm whales in Kaikōura to track population changes.
    Your donation helps fund annual surveys that guide conservation and policy.

    View Project
  • A leopard seal lies on a jetty with its mouth open wide

    Leopard Seal Protection Project

    National photo-ID and sightings database to monitor leopard seal ecology.
    Your donation supports vital data collection and public education.

    view project
  • A little blue penguin climbs over rocks

    Kororā Protection Project

    Long-term research on New Zealand little blue penguins to inform conservation.
    Your donation funds research students and ongoing population tracking.

    view project
A pod of dolphins swimming near Kaikoura

Advisory Team

Meet the team behind the scenes of Moana Mark

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A pod of humpback whales migrate north in the waters off NSW.png

Board Members

Meet the board behind Moana Mark

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