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New Zealand Department of Conservation (DOC) has advised that marine reserves in the Auckland region are receiving additional tools for protection under the Conservation (Infringement Systems) Act 2018. In the Auckland region, marine reserves are located at Cape Rodney-Okakari Point (Goat Island), Tāwharanui, Long Bay-Okura, Te Matuku (Waiheke), and Motu Manawa-Pollen Island.

DOC Marine Reserves Ranger Gabrielle Goodin is delighted and notes “the system also gives DOC a better understanding as to where offending is happening and the frequency of it. DOC can then effectively target compliance resources to reduce offences in the future.”

The system will allow DOC to issue infringement notices to people breaking conservation laws, in addition to the existing compliance tools.

DOC is encouraging anyone who observes people breaking conservation rules, such as fishing in a reserve or putting marine wildlife at risk, to report the behaviour with as much information as possible.

Goodin adds “whether it’s on land or on the water, we encourage everyone visiting marine reserves to familiarise themselves with rules to help preserve the special nature of these places.”

The main aim of marine reserves is to create areas as true to natural marine habitats and life. This means it is an offence to touch or take anything from a marine reserve.

Every marine reserve in Aoteroa/New Zealand is unique in their features and rich in biodiversity. The natural undisturbed state of these areas also sees the reserves being desirable spots for recreational activities including swimming, kayaking, snorkelling, diving, exploring rock pools and walking.

DOC is advising that to identify marine reserve boundaries – find the markers, read the signs and use the MarineMate app. Reserve locations can also be found on their website.

Image: DOC patrol boats In Auckland used by rangers to protect local marine reserves. Credit: Kate Hamilton/DOC

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