In this section:

You can help

DOC looks after the marine reserve, with the advice and assistance of the Te Tapuwae o Rongokako Marine Reserve Committee.

The reserves continued protection depends on the care and vigilance of all visitors. If you see people taking anything from the reserve, please report the activity to the Department of Conservation as soon as possible. You can call 0800 4 POACHER (0800 476 224) or 0800 DOCHOT (0800 362 468).

New Zealand fur seal pup tangled in a fishing net. Photo: Rhys Burns.
New Zealand fur seal pup tangled in a
fishing net

Remember that all life and natural features in the reserve are totally protected.

It is illegal to take, disturb, kill or damage anything within the reserve and anyone who commits an offence may be subject to a fine of up to $250,000 and/or imprisonment. It is also an offence to pollute or litter the reserve, discharge any firearm in or into the reserve or erect any structure in the reserve.

Contacts

Further information about the reserve is available from the:

Gisborne Whakatane Area Office
Phone: +64 6 869 0460
Fax: +64 6 867 8015
Email: gisbornewhakatane-ao@doc.govt.nz
Address: 63 Carnarvon Street
Gisborne 4010
Postal Address: PO Box 668
Gisborne 4040
Conservation for prosperity. Tiakina te taiao, kia puawai