Taputeranga Marine Reserve occupies part of Wellington’s south coast, between Lyall Bay and Te Kopahou Reserve to the west of Ōwhiro Bay. The picturesque coastline is a popular walking and running area, and its rockpools are great places for children to learn about marine life. Snorkellers and divers can explore shipwrecks off the coast or spot the reserve’s marine animals and landscapes.
The reserve’s location at the confluence of several water currents and its complex topography help it support a unique mixture of plant and animal species in a small area. The number and sizes of species in the marine reserve area have increased since the reserve was formed – Taputeranga is home to over 180 species of fish, crayfish (kōura/rock lobster), kina (sea urchin), pāua, starfish, crabs, sponges and octopus. The mararī/butterfish and pākirikiri/blue cod are now less wary of divers, and large crayfish are often seen in the open. There is a variety of birdlife in the reserve too, such as oystercatchers and reef herons close to shore, whitefronted terns just off the coast, and large albatrosses soaring above the waves out to sea. Little blue penguins breed on the south coast, protected from predators by traps and custom-built nest boxes. Look for fur seals lazing on the rocks or sunning themselves on the water surface. From the shore you may also see dolphins, orca, leopard seals and even whales.
This virtual cache will take you to an information board telling you more about the marine life of Taputeranga Marine Reserve.
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Virtual Rewards 3.0 - 2022-2023
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