Flea Bay/Pōhatu Marine Reserve, Banks Peninsula
Pōhatu Marine Reserve is centred on Flea Bay, on the south-east side of Banks Peninsula.
A marine reserve is an area set aside for preserving the marine environment in its natural state. It is like a marine national park, a place totally protected from exploitation, providing opportunities to explore and enjoy the natural undersea world.
Learn about the abundant marine life found in Canterbury's Pōhatu Marine Reserve.
DOC is monitoring the changes in the Pōhatu Marine Reserve. In this section you can review some of the results of this monitoring programme.
The varied plants and animals in the reserve make it ideal for birdwatching, diving and snorkelling and exploring by boat.
Banks Peninsula is home to some of New Zealand’s threatened marine species, including the endangered Hector’s dolphin.
Tangata whenua regard Pōhatu Marine Reserve as part of the integrated sustainable management of fisheries resources in the wider Akaroa Harbour area.
Review of the Marine Reserves Act 1971
Learn how to carry out your own marine survey
Marine reserve information
Marine reserves monitoring results
Marine reserve research permits
