Total number of blue cod inside and outside Taputeranga Marine Reserve

Download the data used in the graph (XLXS, 14K)

See research and monitoring for information about how this data was collected.

Status: undetermined

In 2016 there were more blue cod (pākirikiri) of all sizes inside the marine reserve than outside. Because the natural level of blue cod in the marine reserve is uncertain, the health status of this species cannot be assessed at this time.

Wellington’s south coast is popular with fishers. Marine reserves have no walls, so blue cod may be caught if they move outside the marine reserve.

Trend: increasing

The number and average size of blue cod in Taputeranga Marine Reserve has increased in the last 5 years. 

By preventing fishing and other disturbance, a marine reserve enables an area of sea and shore to return to a more natural state. Research in other marine reserves has shown that the full benefit of protection can usually be seen after 10 years or more. The data from Taputeranga Marine Reserve currently covers 5–8 years of protection, so future studies may show more positive effects such as larger and more plentiful fish.