Activities in Te Tapuwae o Rongokako Marine Reserve

In the water

One of the best ways to learn about the reserve and its inhabitants is to get into the water. Those with a mask and snorkel can explore the rocks close to the shore the shallow moat near the southern end of the reserve provides an ideal place to observe and learn about some of the plants and animals you will encounter.

People diving, Te Tapuwae o
Rongokako Marine Reserve

On the water

Some of the wildlife within the reserve is best seen from the water. Many different types of birds, including gannets, terns, penguins and gulls, are dependent on the sea for food. Marine mammals also visit the reserve - New Zealand fur seals and several dolphin and whale species are all regularly observed in the area.

On foot

The beach and intertidal reefs are best explored at low tide. There is a sandy beach of about 4 km in length, as well as intertidal reef platforms around Pariokonohi Point near the southern boundary. As you explore the intertidal reef, you will encounter a wide variety of marine plants and animals that depend on the rise and fall of the tide for survival, including crabs, barnacles, snails and seaweeds. The intertidal area is also frequented by a number of bird species, such as oystercatchers, New Zealand dotterels, gulls and terns.