The 10 best marine reserves in New Zealand

New Zealand is blessed to have dramatic coastlines and picturesque offshore islands where marine reserves allow a host of beautiful sea creatures to live in a natural habitat. Due to the foresight of conservationists, 44 marine reserves have been created for everyone to enjoy.

Visitors are free to enter these unspoiled reserves and marvel at the prolific sea life that is totally protected from exploitation by fishing and gathering.

Fanning out from Auckland, five of the North Island’s most loved marine reserves are very accessible to visitors. Nothing can be taken from the reserves except photos and life-long memories. South Island visitors can enjoy popular marine reserves at harbour entrances and in open waters.