Waterwise had its beginnings in April 1980 on the shores of Lake Pupuke, Auckland, during a school-working bee.  The principal of Milford Primary School and a group of parents had a vision, which after many hours of voluntary work would see the formation of The Pupuke Schools Waterwise Society.  Representatives from six member schools, The Education Department, Yachting N.Z., The Water Safety Council and local service organisations and businesses worked together to provide yachts, kayaks, patrol boats, life jackets and other facilities.

The society was incorporated in February 1982 and commenced operation in October that year.  In April of 1983 the late Diana, Princess of Wales officially opened the Pupuke Waterwise Centre.

There are now four Waterwise centres in North Shore City catering for in excess of 5000 pupils per year.  One centre in Rodney, three in Auckland with two more being developed, and a number in varying forms throughout N.Z. Waterwise is now operating in the USA and enquires have been received from Australia.

Waterwise is not a learn to sail programme, it is a programme which operates in schools to promote confidence in the marine environment through education and a thorough understanding of water safety principals.