This site was chosen for a marine reserve because of the rich
and varied habitats associated with the coastline and outlying islands. Reefs
of hard rock, soft sediments, intricate caves and underwater arches provide
homes for complex communities of plants, crustacean, molluscs and fish.
Sheltered from the worst of the southerly winds, Te Whanganui-A-Hei gives
visitors an unparalleled opportunity to appreciate an unspoilt marine
environment.
There are a lot of interesting activities tourist can do in Te Whanganui-A-Hei (Cathedral Cove) included snorkeling, diving, boating, walking tracks and see unique marine community in hidden caves. The snorkelling and swimming opportunities in Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve are plentiful, especially in the shallow waters around Stingray Bay (Te Karaka) and the western side of Mahurangi Island. Gemstone Bay (Waimata) has a snorkel trail marked by buoys that illustrate the marine habitats and associated species that live in the waters below them.
A huge variety of habitats lie hidden beneath the waves –
boulder banks, steep rocky cliffs, sandy shores, convoluted reefs and hidden caves, to name just a
few. Each is home to a unique marine community. Crayfish and black angel fish hide in the cracks
and crevices of reefs such as those around Mahurangi Island. In the large
boulder fields near Motueka Island curious schools of sweep may follow divers.
Boating is permitted in the reserve but tourist must take
care if anchoring. Waste, ballast and sewage must not be discharged within the reserve. Besides that,
there are several scenic walks on land adjacent to the reserve, including the Cathedral Cove track which
gives access to Gemstone Bay, Stingray Bay, Mare’s Leg and Cathedral Cove.
Access to Cathedral Cove carpark is available at the western end of Hahei Beach
and Te Pare Point Historic reserve is at the eastern end of Hahei Beach.
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