What is happening in the Southwest Pacific

Kia ora! We’re Manta Watch Aotearoa New Zealand.

Did you know we have Manta Rays in our waters? These gentle giants reach seven metres across and have the largest brain of any fish, with a brain-to-body ratio similar to humans. Sadly, they’re globally endangered and need our help.

Over the last six years, with support from citizen scientists, we’ve shown that Manta Rays call Aotearoa home and rely on it as a crucial part of their life cycle. Our research has revealed a 9,000km migration between New Zealand and the Southwest Pacific—towards Fiji, Tuvalu, and Tonga.

But our satellite data also shows many of Aotearoa’s oceanic mantas are dying in the Southwest Pacific. To understand why, we’re launching a crowdfunding campaign to send three scientists along their migration route to identify threats and find solutions.

Mantas are one of many endangered species doing this migration. The data we gather will help advocate for better protection across this region. Partners like WWF are working toward a protected “blue corridor,” and our research will strengthen their case.

We’re raising funds for our team’s travel, food, and time to get to the South Pacific and investigate these threats.

This is a massive project, and we truly need your help. Any donation is appreciated—and if you can’t donate, please share our posts or join our mailing list.

With your support, we can protect this endangered species and help create stronger ocean protection!

Thank you!