The Wairarapa Coast: a literature review - marine biology, geology, archaeology
- Author
- Atkinson, T
- Year
- 2001
- Pages
- 89
- Summary
- This review of the scientific literature of the marine biology of the Wairarapa coastline was conducted to aid the identification of areas with marine reserve potential. The review includes geology, hydrography, bathymetry, terrestrial biology, archaeology, history and current human use of the coast, as these topics may influence marine biology or protected area siting. For the purposes of this review, Wairarapa Coast means the area between Waimata River (north of Akitio) and Windy Point (eastern Rimutaka coast). The northern boundary corresponds with that of the Department of Conservation Wellington Conservancy. Thirteen sites are identified as having possible reserve potential, and are discussed in detail in the Site List. They are, from north to south, as follows: Owahanga, Omaruapakihau / Mataikona, Whakataki, Castlepoint, Whareama, Uruti Point, Kaiwhata, Flat Point, Honeycomb Rock, Pahaoa, Te Awaiti / Tora, White Rock, and Cape Palliser. The review found that little literature exists relating to the marine ecology of the Wairarapa coast. In contrast, the geology of the area has been well studied. Within the limits of this knowledge, the suitability of each of the above sites is discussed in relation to criteria likely to be used in decision-making. Areas and topics needing significant future research are suggested.