A monofin, a tail, and an afternoon you'll remember.

The Mermaid Experience is part performance, part freediving, part play. You'll learn the underwater finning that makes the photos look effortless — monofin technique, hold position, posing, photo-ready presence — alongside genuine freediving fundamentals. $159 full experience — your $100 deposit today locks your spot; balance on the day.

This isn't a costume rental. It's a real underwater skill set that happens to come with a tail.

Who this is for

• Anyone who's ever wanted to feel like a mermaid (no apology needed)
• Photographers and content creators wanting genuine underwater skill
• A different kind of birthday or hen party
• Parents and kids together (12+)

What we do

• Land-based intro: how to move in a monofin, what your body actually does underwater
• Pool session: getting in, getting buoyant, dolphin kick, posing, holding
• Photo session: stills and short video, in-water
• Debrief and digital photos delivered same day

What's included

• Monofin and mermaid tail hire (range of sizes)
• Mask and any other equipment needed
• Professional underwater photography
• SSI Mermaid certification on completion
• Digital photo pack

What to bring

• Togs to wear under the tail
• Towel
• Hair tie (long hair)
• Goggles if you have them

Add-ons available

• Private session (2-person minimum)
• Group / party rate (4+)
• Professional video edit (separate booking)

Where it happens

Studio pool in Paihia, and Kai Iwi Lakes — one of Northland's most beautiful freshwater locations — for our outdoor Mermaid days.

Who teaches it

Sacha Williamson — first female SSI Freediving Instructor Trainer in New Zealand. 25+ years professional ocean. SSI Mermaid Instructor.

Pair Mermaid with

• SSI Freedive Level 1 — the breath-hold and safety foundation most Mermaid divers add early in their journey.
• SSI Freedive Instructor — the pathway to teaching Mermaid certifications under your own name.
• Recovery Studio Sauna & Plunge — contrast therapy for the regular underwater performer.

Safety & certification

Freedive Aotearoa is an SSI Instructor Training Centre, AdventureMark certified, Qualmark accredited, and operates under a WorkSafe-aligned Safety Management System. Read our safety standards →

Questions? info@freedive.co.nz