New Zealand's rich and complex marine environment extends from sub-tropical to sub-antarctic and provides homes to over 15,000 known species - many of which are not found anywhere else in the world.
Find out about marine reserves, marine parks, marine mammal sanctuaries and other marine environments that DOC has responsibility for.
Learn the various ways New Zealand's coastline is managed.
DOC is actively engaged in addressing the impacts of commercial fishing on protected species and the marine environment. Find out more.
Learn about aquaculture reform legislation and its implementation.
Review information regarding the Foreshore and Seabed Act 2004.
Learn about what makes each of our marine reserves special and what can be done to protect these 'underwater national parks'.
Find out about marine mammals that live in our waters, including many species of dolphins, seals and whales.
About 66 types of sharks are found in New Zealand waters ranging in size from the tiny pygmy shark which grows up to 27 cm long to the 12-metre long whale shark.
Proposed New Zealand Coastal Policy Statement 2008
Learn how to carry out your own marine survey
Marine mammals
Marine reserve monitoring results