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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