Innovation
Case Study
Sea Nest
Sea Nest is reimagining what marine restoration can look like in Aotearoa. From their pilot site in Bluff Harbour, they’ve developed a clever new system of modular reef structures that breathe life back into damaged marine habitats. In just under a year, they’ve transformed a lifeless stretch of seafloor into a flourishing underwater community—proving that with the right tech, some tenacity, and a vision for healthier oceans, real change can happen fast.
Bluff Harbour, Southland / Marine Restoration
The innovation
We developed a new, modular artificial reef technology and active restoration processes that are specifically designed to restore marine habitats in Aotearoa New Zealand. The modules can be used to advance the sustainability of marine industry and coastal development, as well as to restore degraded environments.
The problem it solved
We needed effective and economical ways to help the marine and coastal industries become more sustainable and regenerate degraded marine habitats in Aotearoa, which are facing increasing pressure from development, land use change, industrial growth, and environmental stressors.
The impact
Our pilot restoration project has proven the effectiveness of our reef modules and active restoration methods. In less than 12 months, we’ve transformed our pilot site from a relative ecological desert into a thriving, diverse marine community.
Why it matters
Our work has proven the potential for marine restoration in Aotearoa and shown that positive impacts can be achieved quickly and affordably. The benefits of restoring marine habitats are wide-ranging: from enhancing biodiversity, to improving the sustainability of aquaculture, fisheries, and coastal development, to securing the future of cultural and recreational practices—all while contributing to a lower-carbon, more sustainable future.
Looking ahead
We’re developing larger reef modules for coastal and open-ocean deployment. We’ve also been developing technology to monitor and trial the effectiveness of different reef designs. At the same time, we are working with groups around Aotearoa who are interested in evidence-based marine restoration to help support important indigenous species. Watch this space!
