Welcome to Making Mermaids, New Zealand’s premier mermaiding training facility! If you’re ready to dive into the enchanting world of mermaiding, there’s no better guide than shark diver extraordinaire, underwater photographer, mermaid and our lead instructor, Fiona Ayerst. With an underwater career spanning over three decades, Fiona brings unparalleled expertise, passion, and dedication to every mermaid course she teaches. Let’s dive deeper into her impressive background and discover why she’s the perfect mentor for your mermaiding journey.
A Lifetime Underwater: Fiona’s 30-Year Career
Fiona Ayerst’s journey in the underwater world began over 30 years ago. As a PADI Scuba Diver Instructor, she has spent countless hours exploring the ocean’s depths, training new divers, and sharing her love for the marine environment. Her extensive experience in scuba diving ensures that her students receive top-notch training in safety, technique, and underwater skills, essential components for any aspiring mermaid.
Professional Underwater Photographer
In addition to her expertise in diving, Fiona is an acclaimed underwater photographer. Her stunning images have captured the beauty and mystery of the world’s marine life, showcasing her ability to connect with the underwater world in a way few others can. Her photography not only serves a message of underwater conservation, but also as a visual inspiration for her mermaiding students to learn, conserve and enjoy the worlds oceans. Imagine learning to swim gracefully like a mermaid, all while having the opportunity to be photographed by one of the best in the business!
Qualified PADI Mermaid Instructor
Fiona’s qualifications extend beyond scuba diving and photography. She is also a certified PADI Mermaid Instructor. A new skill embarked upon in 2021 following her immigration from South Africa to New Zealand. Fiona is trained to teach the unique skills and techniques required for mermaiding. Her comprehensive understanding of both freediving and monofinning ensures that students receive a well-rounded education, blending the art and athleticism of mermaiding with the necessary safety protocols.
Passion for Ocean and Shark Conservation
Fiona’s commitment to the ocean goes beyond teaching and photography. She is a passionate advocate for ocean and shark conservation, a cause that has garnered her recognition from notable platforms, including Forbes Magazine where she was featured as one of Africa’s female ocean warriors. Her work in conservation aims to protect the delicate marine ecosystems and raise awareness about the importance of preserving our oceans for future generations. By training with Fiona, you’ll not only learn the skills of a mermaid but also gain a deeper appreciation and understanding of the marine environment you’re exploring.
Join Fiona at Making Mermaids
At Making Mermaids, we are proud to have Fiona Ayerst as our lead instructor. Her extensive experience, artistic talent, and dedication to conservation make her an invaluable asset to our team and an inspiring mentor for our students. Whether you’re a beginner looking to dip your toes into the world of mermaiding or an experienced diver seeking to expand your skills, Fiona’s guidance will ensure a magical and educational experience.
Enroll in one of our mermaiding courses today and embark on an underwater adventure like no other, led by the incredible Fiona Ayerst. Dive in and discover the magic of mermaiding at Making Mermaids, New Zealand’s home to mermaids!
