Although the water is cold, getting into it is one way to appreciate the reserve. With a wetsuit, mask and snorkel you can explore the rocks around the shore, while scuba gear will allow you to dive further out. Average depth for divers is approximately 18 metres. Visibility generally ranges from 5-8 metres.

Aquatic Life:

A variety of fish such as triplefins, lumpfish, moki, butterfish/mararī, spotties, banded wrasse, blue cod/kopukopu, leather jackets/kōkiri, crayfish/kōura, paua and rockfish/taumaka can be found.

Warnings:

Take care - the 4WD road can be treacherous in bad weather.

Be aware of the weather. It can change rapidly, creating dangerous sea conditions. As the bay is exposed to southerly storms, be prepared for rain and carry warm clothes.

Snorkellers and divers need to be aware of the limitations of people in their party as this is a relatively isolated area.

At low tide the rocks may be slippery with algae. Take care when clambering around them.

This site is a marine reserve. All life and natural features are totally protected. It is illegal to take, disturb, kill or damage anything within the reserve and anyone who commits an offence may be subject to a fine of up to $250,000 and/or imprisonment. It is also an offence to pollute or litter the reserve, discharge any firearm in or into the reserve or erect any structure in the reserve.

Directions:

To get there, take State Highway 75 from Christchurch to Akaroa, then the gravel Lighthouse Road up to the Flea Bay Road turnoff.

The road down to the bay is steep and unsealed. A four wheel drive vehicle is recommended.

Alternatively you may take a boat charter or private vessel from Akaroa Harbour.