Look at nature through new eyes. Take time to explore your relationship with nature and enjoy its benefits – connecting with nature is good for us. Papatūānuku’s wellbeing is our wellbeing.
Did you know that there’s been a marine reserve right here in our harbour since 2006 thanks to the hard work of local Kamo high school students and the community in the 1990s.
The harbour here is very deep and this, along with the strong currents that swirl around Motukaroro mean many reef-fish quite unique for a harbour environment call this area home. The kelp forests here are home to many marine species – not just fish, but sponges, anenomes, nudibranchs and more! If you’re snorkelling, look out for seahorses, and the DOC Marine Rangers favourite fish – a crested blenny. Divers will be lucky enough to spot lots of brightly coloured marine species below 10 meters as kelp gives way to vibrant jewel anemones as the light decreases.
Be very careful in the water here: there are strong tidal currents and back eddies in this area which can be unsafe - please exercise caution when entering the water.
You can help to keep this area a safe haven for a diverse array of sea life by not fishing or collecting sea food within the marine reserve, and by calling 0800 DOCHOT if you see someone who is.
Learn more about the Motukaroro Marine Reserve here: https://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-go/northland/places/whangarei-harbour-marine-reserve/motukaroro-poster/