The first marine reserve in New Zealand was created in 1975 and takes its name from the small island not far from the shore. Goat Island Marine Reserve is 518 hectares in size, and more than 100 species of fish have been identified within the reserve. The reserve is a real success story.
It’s the perfect place to snorkel, scuba dive, kayak, or for those who don’t like to get wet, explore the seabed via the glass bottom boat.
Both juvenile and adult snapper gather in the marine reserve around Goat Island near Leigh in New Zealand.
Blue MauMau fish at the Goat Island Marine Reserve.
The beach is a busy place during the summer months since a visit to Goat Island is perfect for a family outing.
Beach at Goat Island in backlight.
Rocks and Beach near Goat Island Marine Park
In Maverick Lovers, Aidan is a travel blogger. He’s on assignment with New Zealand tourism and takes his friends Gabriel and Christina with him when he visits Goat Island. Learn more about Maverick Lovers and read the first chapter.
Wow, that’s just beautiful.
It is a special place, and the fish stocks have grown since the area has been made into a reserve.