Octopus, squid, starfish and shimmering schools of fish were among the highlights for more than 100 participants at this year’s Rotokura/Cable Bay Community Guided Snorkel Day.
The 12th annual event brought 110 locals and visitors to the waters of Cable Bay, highlighting both the biodiversity of the area and growing community interest in marine experiences.
Hosted by Tasman Bay Guardians (TBG) through the Experiencing Marine Reserves programme, the day began with Ngāti Tama performing a karakia and sharing pūrākau.
Guided by a team of 20 dedicated volunteers, TBG staff and experienced snorkel guides, participants were treated to a wide range of marine life, including cuttlefish, squid, octopus, seahorses, sea stars, kina, pāua, spotties and eagle rays.
“These days are all about helping people connect with te taiao in a real and accessible way,” says event organiser from TBG, Thalassa Kawachi.
“It’s fun, it builds confidence, and it creates that connection to the moana. From there, people naturally want to protect what they know and love!”
The purpose of the event is to break down barriers and make snorkelling accessible to everyone. All gear and guidance were provided free of charge and nearly half of participants had never snorkelled before.
Stew Robertson, marine reserve ranger for Horoirangi and Tonga Island Marine Reserves with the Department of Conservation and a founding member of Tasman Bay Guardians, highlighted the event’s importance for marine conservation.
“Supporting the Cable Bay Snorkel Day and the Experiencing Marine Reserves kaupapa is essential for promoting awareness and appreciation of marine protection. The more people who love and understand marine environments, the better protected they will be.”
He also noted ongoing ecological improvements within Horoirangi Marine Reserve and emphasised the importance of respecting reserve boundaries.
“We ask everyone to fish well away from the reserve boundaries to avoid harm. Fishing in a marine reserve can result in fines or prosecution, so it’s important to be mindful.”
The Rotokura Community Guided Snorkel Day is part of Tasman Bay Guardians’ ongoing mission to increase accessibility to te taiao and empower communities to actively engage in marine conservation.
The event was supported by Department of Conservation, Ngāti Tama ki te Waipounamu, Seaweek and New World Nelson, and delivered with the help of TBG staff, volunteers and DOC personnel.
