Our Story
The Nga Motu Marine Reserve Society was formed in 1997 to promote the idea of a network of small reserves on the Taranaki coast.
The society is made up of locals who are interested in the study and preservation of local coastal and marine areas.
To date the society has successfully initiated the establishment of the Tapuae Marine Reserve and continues to survey and study the marine life of the Taranaki coast.
We and our local communities are involved in some exciting projects which provide volunteering and education opportunities.
Objectives of the Ngā Motu Marine Reserve Society:
To establish a network of marine reserves in the Taranaki Region
To ensure the marine life and other natural resources in the region are protected
To encourage the scientific study of marine life on the Taranaki coast
To foster community awareness of the coastal environment by education
Taranaki has two marine reserves, Parininihi in the north, and Tapuae near New Plymouth. These 'no-take' reserves have the purpose of scientific research. The Sugar Loaf Marine Protected Area (SLIMPA) which protects the seabed, and has specific fishing regulations adjoins Tapaue.
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