Nelson kaimoana: enjoy the catch of the day
26 February 2025
Nelson is the largest fishing port in Australasia, so you’d expect the kaimoana to be pretty good in these parts.
Horoirangi Marine Reserve
The beautiful Horoirangi Marine Reserve lies north of Nelson city, along the eastern side of Tasman Bay. The reserve is a great place for walking, exploring the intertidal zone, snorkelling, diving, kayaking and boating.
The bluffs overlooking Horoirangi Marine Reserve are more than a dramatic landscape – they are also the source of rocks for the rugged boulder reefs below. The reefs extend offshore up to 400m and to a depth of around 20m.
The reefs support a typical array of animals. Shellfish, anemones, sponges and sea squirts cling to the rocks; snails, starfish and crustaceans move secretively amongst the boulders and various fish patrol above.
Yellow sponge at Horoirangi Marine Reserve © Anna Barnett Creative Commons
Ambush starfish are unusually common in Horoirangi, and their colours provide a sharp contrast to the subdued hues of the rocks and most of the other reef species.
A climb up Cable Bay Walkway through the neighbouring farmland will reward you with expansive views over Horoirangi and out across Tasman Bay.
A walk along the Nelson Boulder Bank is also worth the effort, though be prepared for windy conditions and rough, ankle-testing rocks.
Boulder Bank. © Christopher John SSF Creative Commons
For bird watchers, variable oystercatchers and blue penguins nest along the rocky shoreline. Over winter, spotted shags roost on the rocky crags at Ataata Point.
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