Abstract
Under the Wharf is a marine science outreach programme designed to engage school-aged students with the impacts of ocean warming through visual storytelling as well as hands-on, inquiry-based learning. Developed at the New Zealand Marine Science Centre, the programme integrates field, laboratory, and classroom activities to educate students about marine monitoring and climate change. Students participated in a scientific investigation that included developing their research question and planning of their study, deployment of sampling equipment, data collection, analysis of scientific data, and sharing of their results with scientists and their school community. Survey responses from teachers and students indicated high levels of engagement and improved understanding and attitude towards climate change. This article describes the structure, implementation, and outcomes of the Under the Wharf programme, highlighting its value in promoting environmental stewardship and scientific literacy in a way that is both educational and uplifting during a period of unprecedented environmental change.