Auckland, New Zealand's marine environment is changing and not for the better, plagued with kina barrens which used to be kelp forests. Sea Jewel combats this problem by promoting kelp forest growth in kina barren areas while also increasing the economic wealth of the site by generating tourism.
Sculptures specifically designed to encourage kelp growth will enable kelp forests to expand. Cameras will capture the sculptures in action and live-stream footage on a beach screen. Whether people swim or not, they can watch what's happening underwater, creating an inclusive, interactive experience for all beach visitors.
The key to the sculpture's longevity is to create a self-sufficient ecosystem, achieved through the sculpture's design and specific activities such as crayfish release and kina removal.