Locations

Paterson Inlet / Whaka a Te Wera is a large natural harbour on the eastern side of Rakiura, Stewart Island. The inlet is surrounded on all sides by native forest.

he temperate waters of Patterson Inlet are host to a rich and unique Kelp Forest Ecosystem. Due to the sheltered and nutrient rich waters, there are over 260 species of native seaweed. Within these kelp forests live a multitude of different marine organisms.

Usually, we head to the coastline of Ulva Island, into the Te Wharawhara Marine Reserve. These are 3 reserves totalling 1075 hectares.

Patterson inlet is a melting point for multiple different ocean currents including the warm East Australian Current, resulting in a rich and diverse ecosystem. Some of which is reflected in our Gallery.

Te Wharawhara Marine Reserve

The Te Wharawhara Marine reserve was established in 2004 and is situated as three seperate reserves around Ulva Island. The Reserve has built up an impressive array of thriving kelp forests; in which we operate our tours.

It is likely to bump into large Blue Cod, Moki and Butterfish, as well as a huge variety of reef species. If we are lucky we may even see a New Zealand Sealion or an Octopus. At 1075 hectares, there is plenty of room for exploring

The Neck, Oneke

Oneke, or The Neck, is a peninsula on the far side of Patterson inlet. A deeply historical location, it is the site of the first permanent settlement on Rakiura. On inside it offers sheltered and pristine diving locations. On the outside some of the most rugged and beautiful diving and spearfishing oppertunities in the South Island.