South Pacific Centre for Marine Science at Leigh (SPCMS)

Since 1962 The University of Auckland's Marine Laboratory at Leigh has been central to the Faculty of Science's marine science research and education programmes. It has developed an international reputation for work in marine conservation and sustainability.

As part of the University's "Leading the way" Campaign, the laboratory at Leigh is to be redeveloped to reflect the importance to New Zealand, and the wider South Pacific, of our marine environments. Its research and academic programmes will help in both protecting and conserving our oceans while sustainably developing local marine industries, to the benefit of the whole region.  Click here to view underwater video showing an increase in fish numbers at the marine reserve at Leigh.

The new South Pacific Centre for Marine Science (SPCMS) will also play an important role in educating not just future generations of  graduate and post-graduate students from New Zealand and overseas, but also the hundreds of thousands of people who visit the Goat Island Marine Reserve each year.

The new Edith Winstone Blackwell Interpretive Centre is to be the interface between the University and Laboratory and the visiting public. SPCMS will also run an outreach programme for schools in the greater Auckland and Northland areas. The Interpretive Center will feature a number of display areas and exhibits with the latest in display and interactive technologies.

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