Taputeranga Rock Pools

Wellington City

The rock pools From Ōwhiro Bay to Island Bay are particularly colourful, rich in various seaweeds and marine life. There has been an explosion in life since the 8 square km Taputeranga Marine Reserve was established in 2008, which included a “no take” rule. Three major ocean currents converge in the Reserve, which explains why the recovery has been so dramatic in such a short time.

The rock pools are the most obvious result for a casual observer, but the reserve is now rich in various fish species that had largely disappeared from the south coast. A kayak trip to Taputeranga Marine Reserve is recommended, where the pools are enormous and over 2 metres deep, and the snorkelling is easy.

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