EcoWorld Aquarium first opened in 1997 as Aquarium of the Marlborough Sounds, and then was renamed Seahorse World Aquarium followed by EcoWorld Aquarium.

EcoWorld Trust

The EcoWorld Science Heritage and Education Trust ("EcoWorld Trust") was founded in 2004. EcoWorld Aquarium provides 50c from each admission as a direct donation to the EcoWorld Trust. Funds are also sourced from grants and donations.

Vision

To increase our understanding of and respect for the environment and our natural heritage, fostering a belief in the need for a sustainable co-existence between wildlife and people. People empowered to take positive action for wildlife and the environment in a global envionment where ecosystems are healthy, understood and valued.

Objective

To undertake, facilitate and promote research, academic studies, learning and education in:

1. New Zealand marine sustainability, science and natural heritage and
2. The sustainability and science of New Zealand 's fauna and flora, heritage and culture

To generally promote knowledge of sustainability and science with respect to New Zealand marine life, including flora and fauna and terrestrial environments.

The EcoWorld Trust has been involved in the following projects and sponsorships:

"Dreamnight at the Aquarium" - an evening for chronically ill and disabled children from the Marlborough region. Our first event on December 3rd 2010 included 38 children accompanied by 112 parents, siblings and caregivers all given VIP access to EcoWorld Aquarium.

EcoWorld Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre - established in 2009 with the support of DoC, Port Marlborough, Picton Veterinary Centre and EcoWater. The Centre has cared for more than 24 injured and fledgling Little Blue Penguins as well as other marine birds.

Department of Conservation - Seaweek and Conservation holidays - for the last five years EcoWorld Aquarium has been a sponsor for Seaweek in Marlborough . The trust also participates in DoC conservation holidays providing sponsorship and funding for work on Blumine and Long Island .

The Tuatara Project combines the resources of the Trust, EcoWorld Aquarium, Te Atiawa Manawhenua Ki Te Tau Ihu Trust of Picton and DoC to house and display Brother's Island Tuatara. The Tuatara Project has been assisted by a grant from the Marlborough District Council.

The trust also supports a variety of other projects and sponsorships.