Entrance to Whangarei Harbour
The marine environment in the Whangarei Harbour is of distinctive quality, and two marine areas are set aside for protection around Motukaroro (Passage) Island and at Waikaraka. The reserve acts as an important nursery for the spectacular marine life.
The seabed surrounding Motukaroro Island is a feeding ground for an unusually high diversity of fish, and the reserve also includes mangroves, and tidal flats that support a myriad of marine animals and seabirds.
Learn about the different marine habitats protected by the two sites - Waikaraka and around Motukaroro / Passage Island at Reotahi.
Boating, kayaking or snorkelling are great activities within the Whangarei Harbour Marine Reserve.
While there is no DOC-managed accommodation immediately near the Whangarei Harbour Marine Reserve, you can find many beautiful places to stay in Northland.
Find out how to get to the reserve, view a map showing its location and boundaries and review the rules and regulations that must be followed once there.
View maps and find out about the boundaries of Whangarei Harbour Marine Reserve.
Find out how the Department of Conservation aims to test the success of the Whangarei Harbour marine reserve by establishing a biological monitoring program.
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DOC maps: Discover the outdoors - DOC's key places, campsites, tracks and huts, and visitor centres on a map
Check, Clean, Dry between waterways and stop the spread of didymo.
Follow the Outdoor Safety Code:1. Plan your trip2. Tell someone3. Be aware of the weather4. Know your limits5. Take sufficient supplies
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