Twenty years ago, the legacy of one of New Zealand’s most iconic figures, Sir Peter Blake, took on a new life through the establishment of what is now known as BLAKE. Originally the Sir Peter Blake Trust, BLAKE was created to honour Sir Peter’s passion for the environment and his vision of a world where people are empowered to take up the mantle of environmental leadership. Over the past two decades, BLAKE has grown into an impactful organisation, fostering environmental awareness, leadership, and action across Aotearoa.
A Legacy of Leadership and Inspiration
Sir Peter Blake was not just a world-renowned yachtsman; he was also a dedicated environmentalist who believed that the key to solving the planet’s environmental challenges lay in educating and inspiring the next generation. After his tragic passing in 2001, BLAKE was founded to continue his mission. The organization has since become synonymous with environmental leadership, reaching thousands of New Zealanders and inspiring them to take an active role in protecting our planet.
From its inception, BLAKE has been committed to creating opportunities to experience the natural world, understand the challenges it faces, and develop the skills needed to make a difference. Whether through immersive expeditions, educational programs, or leadership development initiatives, BLAKE has consistently focused on building a deep connection between New Zealanders and their environment.
Educational Programmes that Make a Difference
One of BLAKE’s most successful initiatives has been the NZ-VR programme, which uses cutting-edge virtual reality technology to bring the wonders of New Zealand’s marine environments into classrooms. Since its launch, the programme has reached over 106,000 students across more than 600 schools, offering participants a unique and immersive way to experience the underwater world. This program not only educates but also inspires young people to become kaitiaki o te taiao, carrying forward Sir Peter Blake’s vision.
In addition to NZ-VR, BLAKE’s other educational programs, such as BLAKE Inspire and BLAKE Expeditions, have provided thousands of New Zealanders with hands-on experiences that combine adventure with environmental education. These programmes are designed to instill a sense of responsibility and leadership in participants, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to lead environmental initiatives in their communities.
A Collaborative Effort for the Environment
BLAKE’s success over the past 20 years has been fueled by strong partnerships with the New Zealand government and corporate supporters like Westpac. These partnerships have provided essential funding and resources, enabling BLAKE to expand its reach and impact. The collaborative nature of these relationships reflects the organization’s belief that solving environmental challenges requires collective action.
Looking Forward: The Next 20 Years
As BLAKE celebrates its 20th anniversary, the organization remains steadfast in its commitment to environmental leadership and education. Looking ahead, BLAKE envisions a future where all generations are inspired to protect the environment. By continuing to provide transformative experiences and nurturing young leaders, BLAKE aims to ensure that Sir Peter Blake’s legacy lives on in the hearts and actions of New Zealanders.
Join Us for More Insights
This article is part of a series that will dive deeper into BLAKE’s 2024 Impact Report. Over the coming weeks, we’ll explore the various programmes, initiatives, and partnerships that have defined BLAKE’s journey, highlighting key achievements and the ongoing challenges that the organization aims to address. Stay tuned as we unpack the report and share more stories of inspiration and leadership from BLAKE’s 20-year history.
