The reserve protects all marine life within its boundaries, benefiting not just fish and shellfish, but also animals like seals, penguins and other seabirds that live on the land but feed in the sea. Marine Environment Many features typical of the Marlborough Sounds marine environment are found within the marine reserve, from those more representative of the exposed outer sounds in the rocky north, to those typical of the sheltered inner sounds along the sides of Long Island in the southwest. Human activity has put considerable pressure on the Sound's marine environment, and caused a marked decline in fish stocks, particularly blue cod, tarakihi, groper, crayfish and paua. A major benefit of marine reserves is the opportunity they offer to study marine environments in their natural state. Research is being undertaken to monitor changes to the marine ecosystem with the establishment of the reserve.
Initial research indicates fish stocks have increased significantly.
Please be careful around scientific equipment on the sea floor. Rules And Regulations Within the Long Island-Kokomohua Marine Reserve, all plant and animal life is totally protected. No fishing or shellfish gathering from either boat or shore is allowed. Nothing should be removed from the seafloor. What to See And Do Most popular activities in the sound are enhanced or unaffected by the marine reserve.