Scuba diver with underwater video
camera and lights

While fishing is not allowed in the marine reserve, other forms of recreation are welcomed. Walking, exploring the intertidal zone, kayaking, snorkelling, diving, general boating and sightseeing are all popular activities.

Discovering marine life

Discover the diversity of marine life on the lower intertidal boulder reef. This is a fun place to explore and study, especially when there is a very low spring tide and the sea is calm. Take a close look, but remember this is a marine reserve so animals and plants should not be taken or harmed. If you do look around or under boulders, please be very careful not to crush any animals or plants. All boulders should be carefully returned to their original position.

Diving and snorkelling

Some of the best diving and snorkelling is found towards the north of the reserve, especially near Ataata Point. Look out for crayfish lurking in overhangs and crevices, and some of the more common reef fish – wrasses, triplefins, goatfish, blue cod, blue moki, tarakihi, and perhaps an elusive snapper. Sponges, some quite large, are a notable feature to keep a watch for, particularly along the outer reef edge and on the deeper bedrock reefs. Over time (perhaps decades!) divers might witness gradual changes in the numbers of some species due to the cessation of fishing in the reserve.