Whangarei Harbour Marine Reserve

Northland region

View of the entrance to Whangarei Harbour.

Entrance to Whangarei Harbour

Northland region.

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.

Location

Whangarei Harbour is located on Northland's east coast, about 160 km north of Auckland.

Highlights:

Find out more

Publications

Whangarei Harbour Marine Reserve information sheet

Motukaroro poster

Waikaraka poster

Weather

NZ weather

Maps

New Zealand topographic maps are available from DOC Visitor Centres

Learn more

Learn more about driving on the Beach - NRC website
Get involved in CoastCare - NRC website

Stop the spread of didymo

Check, Clean, Dry all items before entering, and when moving between, waterways.

Safety

Follow the Outdoor Safety Code:
1. Plan your trip
2. Tell someone
3. Be aware of the weather
4. Know your limits
5. Take sufficient supplies

Tips for driving on unsealed roads

Contacts

Whangarei Area Office
Phone: +64 9 470 3304
Email: whangareiao@doc.govt.nz
Full office details
Conservation for prosperity. Tiakina te taiao, kia puawai