Piopiotahi Marine Reserve

Piopiotahi (Milford Sound) Marine Reserve stretches 16 kilometers along the northern side of Milford Sound, displaying deep muddy basins and rock walls covered with corals. The waters hold over 100 fish species alongside stingrays, seals, and bottlenose dolphins.

The marine reserve received official protection status in 1993, encompassing 690 hectares of marine ecosystems within the Fiordland region. This designation marked an important phase of environmental protection for this unique ocean habitat.

The name Piopiotahi comes from Maori language and refers to a single thrush bird that once lived in this region. Visitors can sense this cultural connection while exploring the landscape and learning local stories.

The reserve is mainly accessible through guided diving expeditions offered by specialized operators in the region. Visitors should know that the waters are cool and proper equipment is necessary to fully experience the underwater world.

The reserve contains unusual black corals that normally live only in the deepest oceans, yet thrive here at relatively shallow depths. This happens because dark freshwater layers at the surface create special light conditions.