Westhaven, Whanganui Inlet
The estuary at Westhaven is a dual protected area with a marine reserve in the southern third and a wildlife reserve over the remaining two-thirds of the estuary.
Westhaven (Te Tai Tapu) Marine Reserve covers 536 hectares of tidal sandflats and channels south of a line between Melbourne Point (Pah Point) and the closest headland of Westhaven Scenic Reserve.
Westhaven (Whanganui Inlet) Wildlife Management Reserve stretches over 2112 hectares. It covers all tidal sandflats and channels not included in the marine reserve inside a line from Bar Point to South Head Cone.
The landscape is a rare combination of coastal forest and tidal channels.
Learn about the significant features of the environments in the Westhaven reserves.
The landscape is a rare combination of coastal forest and tidal channels. Get information about exploring the area and the birdwatching opportunities it offers.
Westhaven is in a remote area and there is no accommodation available. The closest would be private accommodation in Puponga, Pakawau, Collingwood and Takaka.
Find out how to get to the reserve, and review the rules and regulations that must be followed once there.
Learn about the baseline survey done on Westhaven Inlet in 2001. No detailed monitoring is planned for the inlet apart from mapping broad long-term habitat changes using aerial photography.
Westhaven reserves brochure (PDF, 361K)
NZ weather
New Zealand topographic maps are available from DOC Visitor Centres
Stop the spread of didymo
Check, Clean, Dry all items before entering, and when moving between, waterways.
Safety information
Always contact the nearest visitor centre for the latest information about facilities and conditions.
