Long Bay-Okura Marine Reserve, Nature reserve in Hibiscus and Bays, New Zealand.
This marine reserve covers approximately 980 hectares along Auckland's northeastern coast, protecting diverse coastal habitats including sandy beaches, rocky reefs, estuarine mudflats, and mangrove forests near the Okura River estuary.
Established in 1995 through community initiative led by the East Coast Bays Coastal Protection Society, the reserve was created to address growing concerns about overfishing and habitat destruction along the Auckland coastline.
The area holds deep significance for Māori communities who have traditionally used these waters for fishing and resource gathering, with the name 'Okura' itself deriving from indigenous language reflecting the region's cultural heritage.
Located just 20 kilometers north of Auckland with public transport access and visitor facilities at Long Bay Regional Park, the reserve strictly prohibits fishing, collecting marine life, and disturbing protected species.
The reserve operates under co-management between the Department of Conservation and local iwi, ensuring both ecological protection and respect for traditional cultural practices while serving as an important research site for marine conservation.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
