Activities in Long Island - Kokomohua Marine Reserve
Most popular activities in the sound are enhanced or unaffected by the marine reserve. Because fishing is not allowed, fish life in the reserve is likely to increase, possibly improving fishing outside its boundaries.
On the water
Hector's dolphin are often seen in
Queen Charlotte Sound
Wildlife is best viewed from the water. Dolphins (common, bottlenose, dusky and the rare Hector's) are frequent visitors. Seals visit too, particularly during winter.
There are many birds dependent on the sea for food - gannets and terns, gulls and Little blue penguin, shearwater or King shag - bobbing on the ocean waves.
In the water
The best way to experience the reserve and its inhabitants is to get into the water with them. Those with a mask and snorkel could explore the rocks close to shore. Scuba diving is most rewarding on the reef systems along the north-facing shore of Long Island, and around Kokomohua Islands and the charted rock further north. The best diving is at depths of up to 15 metres.
Beneath the waves is a variety of habitats, from rocky shores exposed at low tide, to deep reefs, underwater cliffs, canyons, and sand flats. Each habitat harbours its own creatures from seaweed forests in the pulsating light zone, to clinging animals like sea squirts, anemone, sponges, sea urchins and shellfish, some adapted to tolerate exposure to sun and wind when the tide is out.
Rocky crevices shelter crayfish, the night-time predators of the sea floor. A variety of fish are present: some local reef fish like cod, and others visiting predators such as kahawai. Cockles, scallops, sea cucumbers, mussels and hermit crabs dominate the open sand flats.
On foot
The flat landing area is ideal for picnicking and swimming, although no facilities are provided. Remember that oyster catchers, black-backed gulls, and caspian terns breed here. Observe them from a distance so they won't be disturbed.
There are no formed tracks on the island and foot access around the shore is difficult. However you may see a shag patiently drying its wings in the sun, or an oyster catcher wrestling with an unfortunate mussel.
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Guided activities and tours