This was New Zealand's first marine reserve, created in 1975. It is also known as Goat Island or Leigh marine reserve.

The ecosystems within Cape Rodney-Okakari Point Marine Reserve are healthier and in a more natural state than those outside its boundaries. The reserve is, however, influenced by the health of the marine environment outside its boundaries – it has no walls.

Larger-scale factors in the Hauraki Gulf such as changing climate patterns, urban development and overfishing affect the health of this marine reserve.