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Updated: September 6, 2001 |
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 The Hauraki Gulf Marine Park includes 4 marine reserves; at Cape Rodney, Long Bay, Motu Manawa and Te Whanganui-A-Hei: |
Marine reserves are our "national parks" of the sea - places where the coastal and marine landscapes, and the marine life within them, are protected by law. Safe from harvesting and other disturbances, plant and animal communities in these reserves can thrive, for the future benefit and enjoyment of all. Marine reserves are special sea areas that protect the sea environment in its natural state.
Marine reserves cover the foreshore and seabed as well as the territorial sea. They protect the sea and at the outer edges of the ocean to the shoreline. Usually a marine reserve prohibits fishing and all marine animals and plants must be preserved. The reserve must have underwater scenery, natural features, or marine life of such distinctive quality, or so typical, beautiful or unique that their continued preservation is in the national interest.
The first marine reserve in New Zealand was established at Goat Island north of Auckland. It took a great deal of time to set up, as people couldn't decide on the rules for the protection of the sea. After 13 years it was decided that no fishing or removing of animals was allowed. Since it's establishment 20 years ago, the sea life has re-established itself to what it may have been like before the arrival of settlers in New Zealand.
So far 15 marine reserves have been established, protecting species in 4 per cent of New Zealand's territorial waters.
You are welcome to visit by boat and go diving, swimming or snorkelling, but you must not take fish or harm the natural habitats in any way.
 Diving is popular in the Poor Knights |
Marine reserves of the Hauraki Gulf and nearby waters are:
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