|
This is the first
marine reserve established on the
Coromandel Peninsula and is officially
named Te Whanganui A Hei: (Cathedral
Cove). The reserve boundaries
are physically marked by large white
posts placed on the islands and at
each end of the mainland boundary.
Figures show that there are definitely
far more snapper inside the marine
reserve than outside and the fish
inside are much bigger.
What
to See and Do
Snorkelling and scuba diving: best
in shallow waters to five metres,
particularly around Gemstone Bay,
Stingray Bay and the western side
of Mahurangi Island. Much of the marine
reserve is also suitable for experienced
scuba divers.
Snorkelling
trail: A snorkeling trail
has been set up at the marine
reserve to encourage swimmers
to explore the marine life.
The Department of Conservation
has set up a trail of photograph
and information panels on buoys
in Gemstone Bay. There is a
diverse range of habitats in
Gemstone Bay and the fish, seaweed
and crustacean numbers are continuing
to grow. The aim of the snorkeling
trail is to give visitors a
bit of a basic knowledge about
the reserve.
Beaches: Hahei, Stingray Bay and Cathedral
Cove beaches provide access
to the Marine Reserve and are
all safe for swimming, as long
as visitors remember to observe
the usual rules. |
|
Scenic
walks: there are a number of
scenic walks on land adjoining the
marine reserve, including the popular
Cathedral Cove track and the Te Pare
Point Historic Reserve, located at
the eastern end of Hahei Beach.
|
