Eastern coast of Kapiti Island, Kapiti Island Marine Reserve
The underwater scenery, exceptionally clear waters, and rich animal and plant life attract many visitors to Kapiti Marine Reserve.
Divers and snorkellers can explore natural features such as the Hole in the Wall and experience the rare combination of three different marine habitats in close proximity. There is also much to see in the reserve by boat, kayak or on foot.
The Kapiti Marine Reserve links the Kapiti Island Nature Reserve and the Waikanae Estuary Scientific Reserve on the adjacent mainland shore.
What features of the marine environment make Kapiti Island Marine Reserve special?
Divers and snorkellers can get amongst the sea life and there are plenty of opportunities for bird watching and other wildlife pursuits for walkers, boaties and kayakers.
Contact the Kapiti Coast Visitor Information Centre to find out about places to stay on the Kapiti coast.
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.
DOC is monitoring the changes in the Kapiti Marine Reserve. In this section you can review some of the results of this monitoring programme.
Kapiti is one of the few accessible island nature reserves. There you can observe birds that are either very rare or absent from the mainland. Access is by permit only.
Students can learn all about Kapiti Island and the Kapiti Marine Reserve.
Kapiti Marine Reserve brochure
Kapiti Island and Kapiti Marine Reserve teaching resource
Kapiti Marine Reserve information for boat skippers - Information about the rules governing the reserve and a map showing the boundaries.
Video clip about Kapiti from Protecting our seas DVD
NZ weather
New Zealand topographic maps are available from DOC Visitor Centres
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
Safety