Te Whanganui-A-Hei (Cathedral Cove) Marine Reserve

Coromandel Peninsula, New Zealand

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Te Whanganui-A-Hei, also known as Cathedral Cove Marine Reserve, is a protected area of 840 hectares located on the Coromandel Peninsula of New Zealand.

The reserve stretches from Cook Bluff to Hahei Beach and includes offshore islands like Motukorure and Mahurangi, offering diverse marine habitats such as sandy flats, rocky reefs, and kelp forests. It is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, natural rock archway, and popular snorkeling spots, attracting thousands of visitors annually.

The area holds strong cultural significance as the ancestral home of the Ngāti Hei people, who continue to act as guardians of the marine environment. Fishing and removal of any marine life or seabed materials are strictly prohibited to preserve the delicate ecosystem and biodiversity within the reserve.

Various walking tracks and boat tours provide access to views and exploration while maintaining conservation efforts. This marine reserve is noted both for its ecological value and its striking natural beauty.