Aotearoa New Zealand’s marine environment is 15 times larger than its land mass. Along with the privilege of such a large and bountiful ocean surrounding us comes the responsibility to look after it.
There are currently 44 marine reserves, but they cover less than 1% of our ocean. In the future, and with the support of New Zealanders, the number of reserves will be expanded, and together with other forms of protection, will form a conservation network that protects the full spectrum of marine species in our waters.
These stamps offer a tantalising snapshot of some of the many charismatic creatures that call our marine reserves home.
$2.00 Clown nudibranch, Taputeranga Marine Reserve
Covering 855 hectares along Wellington’s south coast, Taputeranga is exposed to the lashing, wild wind and pounding waves of Cook Strait. The reserve was created by a coalition in 2008 with the help of the local community.
$3.30 Red coral, Te Awaatu Channel (The Gut) Marine Reserve
Proposed by the New Zealand Federation of Commercial Fishermen and established in 1993, this reserve is one of the oldest in Fiordland and one of the smallest at 93 hectares.
$4.00 Sea sponge, Cape Rodney-Okakari Point
Created in 1975, this well-known reserve is visited by more than 300,000 people each year. Also known as Goat Island or Leigh Marine Reserve, it was the first of its kind and remains a flagbearer for successful marine conservation.
$4.60 Biscuit star, Ulva Island/Te Wharawhara Marine Reserve
Made up of three separate areas off Ulva Island/Te Wharawhara in Paterson Inlet/Whaka a Te Wera on the eastern side of Stewart Island/Rakiura. The marine reserve was established in 2004 and covers 1075 hectares.
