Scientific diving combines the magic of being underwater with the challenge of collecting meaningful ecological data. From learning to dive on the Great Barrier Reef to coral surveys in the Philippines and fieldwork for my Honours project in Sydney, diving has become central to my journey as a marine scientist. It can be exhausting, highly regulated and paperwork-heavy, but few things compare with gathering the data that ultimately drive ecological research and conservation.

As the world’s oceans absorb over 90% of excess heat from greenhouse gas emissions, rising sea temperatures are driving major changes in marine ecosystems. We predict that both sperm and blue whales will shift their range southward around New Zealand by 2100, especially under more severe climate scenarios. This mouvement threatens key foraging grounds like Kaikōura and South Taranaki Bight. Protecting emerging southern habitats could offer future sanctuaries for these vital o