This week’s critter is the NZ Bull Kelp/ Rimurapa. A taonga species for Māori and an important life line to many rocky shore animals. This giant seaweed is known as the ‘forest of the sea’, floating effortlessly on the oceans surface while anchored to rocks on the shoreline. Waves pound the kelp and at times can rip it free, it then floats on the ocean’s surface carrying hitchhiking shoreline animals. It is estimated that at one time there are 70 million bull kelp rafts in the ocean! Nicola Toki, Doc’s Director Operations, Eastern South Island reveals all.