Tāwharanui Marine Reserve, Marine reserve in Rodney district, New Zealand.

Tāwharanui Marine Reserve stretches along a coastline with underwater reefs, tunnels, caves, and rocky outcrops that form a complex underwater landscape. The submerged geology creates varied habitats where different marine creatures make their homes.

The area began as a marine park before becoming an official marine reserve in 2011. This change brought stricter protections for the underwater environment and its inhabitants.

The name reflects Māori origins and connections to the indigenous communities who lived here for centuries. Walking through the reserve, you can sense the deep relationship between the people and this coastal landscape.

Bring food and water with you since shops are not available nearby. Swimming and water activities are safest and most enjoyable during calm weather conditions.

The rocks here date back to the Jurassic period and contain fossilized remains of ancient marine life. These formations turn the reserve into a window into Earth's distant past.

• Location: Rodney
• Operator: Department of Conservation
• GPS coordinates: -36.36079,174.84142
• Latest update: December 14, 2025 20:31