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Cathedral Cove cliffs
Marine reserves are 'no take' areas which have been established to protect marine life. They are a significant tool to protect marine ecosystems because they focus on the entire habitat and its biodiversity, rather than on single species.
The reserve boundaries are clearly marked on the information signs at Hahei Beach, Wigmore Stream, Cooks Beach and Whitanga launching ramps and by large yellow posts placed at each end of the mainland island boundaries.
As with other marine reserves Te Whanganui-A-Hei is closed to:
- all forms of fishing
- the removal of any material - living, dead or mineral
- dumping
- extractive activities such as mining or dredging
Failure to adhere to the above regulations is an offence under the Marine Reserves Act 1971.
Te Whanganui-A-Hei is open to:
- swimming, snorkelling, scuba diving and wildlife watching
- scientific research
- boating, however waste ballast and sewage must not be discharged within the reserve.