Conduct Your Research With Us
While not a big research facility, Mahonia can provide a base for those interested in doing research in this part of the world and offers accommodation, boating and diving access to Kimbe Bay and basic shared laboratory space. Researchers using Mahonia’s facilities are not restricted to exploring Kimbe Bay’s marine environment but opportunities for terrestrial, archeological and anthropological studies are also available.
In keeping with the philosophy of education and community conservation, the researchers who use the facility are encouraged to give some of their time to talk to the local community and school students who visit the Centre.
For examples of the wide variety of research successfully undertaken at Mahonia, please click here.
If you are interested in using Mahonia’s facilities to undertake research, please contact us.
Research Facilities
Mahonia’s boating and diving activities operate from the Walindi Plantation Resort jetty, which is a short 5 minute walk down the beach from the research station.
The research station has several 6 meter fiberglass boats powered by 25 or 40 hp outboard motors that are sufficient for travel to most near-shore locations in the area. For longer distances, charter of neighbouring Walindi Plantation Resort dive boats can be arranged.
As part of the bench fee, researchers are provided with a knowledgeable local guide who will operate and maintain the boat, provide assistance with gear, and help in locating suitable study sites.
A local certified diver can also be hired as a dive assistant if you require one. Please inquire with Mahonia staff by email if you would like to hire a local dive buddy. Tanks and dive weights are both available at the jetty courtesy of Walindi Plantation Resort.
Although the greatest asset Mahonia has to offer is undoubtedly its easy access to the exceptional natural environment surrounding the research station, a modest laboratory is also available that provides a good work space to process samples and store gear. There is a library on-site with useful identification guides and desktop space is available.
“The coral reefs of Kimbe Bay take me back forty years, to a time when corals grew in lush profusion, untroubled by all the problems that beset them today. A short boat ride from [Mahonia Research Station]…and I am diving on reefs that have more than half of the coral species of the world….I am hard pressed to think of anywhere on earth that has this combination of vibrant health, diversity and beauty.”
— Professor J.E.N. “Charlie” Veron, 2008
Research Accommodation
As headquarters of Mahonia Na Dari’s operations, Walindi Nature Centre offers a variety of housing options to accommodate everyone from the solo researcher to large teams of 10-15 people. Self-contained bungalows and rooms are available for solo researchers or couples.
There are six, three bed units with communal kitchens, bathrooms and laundry facilities. Larger groups and up to 24 assistants can be accommodated in the Bikhaus (Big house) which has four rooms with six beds in each.
All accommodation usually has private bathroom with hot and cold water, flush toilets and access to cooking and laundry facilities. Mosquito nets, bed linen, and kitchen utensils are provided. The Bikhaus has shared bathrooms and a communal kitchen and laundry.
Contact us to discuss your research needs and for more information on scientific research in Kimbe Bay.
Download our field guide (coming soon) for further information on working and conducting research in Kimbe Bay.