1 / 2Taputeranga Snorkel Trail
📍 Island Bay, Wellington
The Taputeranga Snorkel Trail at Island Bay gives access to a kelp forest reef inside Taputeranga Marine Reserve. Species regularly sighted include spotted wrasse, blue moki, banded wrasse, paua, kōura and octopus.
The lush kelp and large mellow fish make this very worth while. I saw spotted wrasse, blue moki, banded wrasse, paua, and koura among other smaller fish and rock creatures. Keep an eye out for octopus as well. The tall rocks and channels create interesting hiding spots just inviting curiosity and exploration.
🏆 Family Action Verdict
Children who snorkel here with a guide come away genuinely excited — the fish are large and unhurried rather than skittish, and the reef is close enough to shore for supervised kids to reach comfortably. Check Wellington Mountain to Sea's schedule for free guided days with gear included. Suited to age 5 and above who are comfortable in open water.
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💬 What Families Are Saying
View all reviews →14 Google reviews
Jonas Goodwin (Jonas)
4 months ago
“The lush kelp and large mellow fish make this very worth while. I saw spotted wrasse, blue moki, banded wrasse, paua, and koura among other smaller fish and rock creatures. Keep an eye out for octopus as well. The tall rocks and channels create interesting hiding spots just inviting curiosity and exploration.”
Moira Clenaghan
3 years ago
“My favourite go to along the coast. Parking area can get a little busy on a sunny day especially when there is a group dive happening. There is a picnic table, seating and a rubbish bin. Popular for snorkeling as there is a reef close to shore and sealife numbers are increasing in the reserve”
Eddie Jacobs
2 years ago
“Wellington Mountain to Sea, a non-profit organization, had a free snorkeling day, which included the gear at the Taputeranga Snorkel trail. Awesome experience, and each group had a guide leading the way to ensure everyone stays safe. Plenty to see if you go up close and dive a little deeper!”
Celia Wade-Brown
a year ago
“Always plenty of fish and other wildlife here”
Reviews from Google
Overview
The reef at Taputeranga sits close to shore, making it accessible for confident child swimmers from around age 5. Kelp forests, rocky channels and increasing fish populations reward exploration — the fish are large, mellow and curious. A local non-profit, Wellington Mountain to Sea, periodically runs free guided snorkel days with equipment provided and a guide per group. A picnic table, seating and rubbish bin are on site. Free parking available adjacent.
