Both penguin and seal colonies are present at the Pohatu Marine Reserve, making it a must-visit location for lovers of marine life. If you enjoy seeing smaller sea creatures, you only need to turn to small rock pools. It is possible to access the Pohatu Marine Reserve by road and boat, but there are special recommendations for the vehicles and vessels you can use. Knowing more about Pohatu can help you plan your trip effortlessly, making it a joy for all involved.
Getting to Pohatu
Whether you want to drive or sail to Pohatu, you need to take care with the vehicles you use. Stick to a 4WD when you take a wildlife safari, as it gives you the best chance of safety. You need to be aware of the rapidly changing weather when choosing your boat. It can become dangerous, fast, which means your vessel needs to be prepared for a variety of conditions. Do bear in mind that there is no cell phone reception at the bay, which means the chances of you accessing medical care are very slim.
Exploring the Marine Reserve After You Arrive
You will most likely be keen to get diving when you arrive at Pohatu Island. However, those who are arriving by road need to exercise caution. The nearest road point to the coast is 800 metres above sea level. You need to plan your descent, dives, and ascent carefully to make sure you avoid the bends.
Similarly, if you are choosing to go snorkelling, you need to bear the limitations of your group in mind. The descent to snorkelling areas is steep and there is a lot of algae about, which can make conditions slippy. Accessing medical care usually isn’t possible, which means you may find yourself coming unstuck if someone gets in trouble.
When you get to the island, you might find that the conditions change from being warm and balmy, to cold and rainy in an instant. At points, the sea can become treacherous, so you need to prepare for all eventualities. This includes the types of clothes you pack, as well as the boat you use.
Following the Marine Reserve Rules
Marine Reserves are reserves for a reason. In order to retain their natural beauty and habitats, visitors need to adhere to certain rules. First, you cannot take any animal with you. Ecosystems are very delicate, and taking your domesticated pet to Pohatu can disturb the one there. Similarly, you can’t take any marine reserve wildlife away with you. As tempting as those critters are, they need to stay put on the island.
If you do lift rocks and stones to check out the wildlife, make sure you do so carefully and replace them promptly. Do bear in mind that while certain animals look cute, they instinctively move to protect their surroundings when confronted. If you approach them with a well-meaning pat, they may bite. Keep your distance when looking at seals and similar creatures.
Where You Can Stay in Pohatu
Unfortunately, there is no accommodation on the island itself. Don’t attempt to set up camp there, as this is against the Department of Conservation regulations. However, there are accommodation options in the surrounding areas. Hotels near the Pohatu habitat include the L’HotelAkaroa and Tresori Motor Lodge. One of the simplest ways to reach Pohatu is to take State Highway 75 to Akaroa, travel across Gravel Lighthouse Road, and head off the Flea Bay turnoff.
The route to Pohatu is challenging, but it is well worth the journey when you get there. Always prepare carefully, and you won’t be caught unawares by bad weather or accidents.
