Locals can take part in a microplastics exploration event suitable for all ages next weekend. 

Marine scientist Veronica Rotman, with support from freshwater advocacy group WAI Wānaka, is currently undertaking a first-of-its-kind study into microplastics in Lake Wānaka. 

Next Saturday’s event (October 14) will provide members of the public the chance to get into the shoes of a researcher and get a firsthand look at the project. 

Very little is currently known about the presence of microplastics - fragments of plastic less than 5mm - in New Zealand’s freshwater lakes and rivers, as most studies have focused on the marine environment. 

Microplastics can make their way into the environment through wastewater effluent, stormwater outflow, general degradation of larger plastic products including clothing, synthetic rubber tyres, and even atmospheric fallout, Veronica explained.

“They can literally fall from the sky in precipitation, including snow.” 

Read more: Microplastics under the microscope

The event will feature interactive displays and learning tools related to microplastics and freshwater, WAI Wānaka communications co-ordinator and education support Jaylene Harper said.

Participants will be able to take a sample and test for microplastics using scientific methods, and check out the findings under a microscope.

In addition they will also get a behind-the-scenes look at the equipment used in the project, including the research boat. 

The WAI Wānaka microplastics exploration event will take place on Saturday October 14 from 10.30am-1.30pm at the Wānaka lakefront near the Dinosaur Park.

PHOTO: WAI Wānaka