[2] The marine reserve extends an area a further 463 metres to the northeast,[4] where there are several rocky pinnacles in deep water.

[1][7] In March 2011, a study commissioned by the Department of Conservation found more large blue cod than at any point in the previous 17 years.

[6] In July 2020, the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research identified microplastics on the sea floor of the marine reserve.

[11] In January 2022, 50 fluttering shearwater (Puffinus gavia) or pakahā chicks were translocated from the reserve to the newly-established Wharariki Ecosanctuary at Cape Farewell[12] They were the first species to be introduced to the new sanctuary.

[13] The rocky pinnacles are a habitat for schools of butterfly perch, tarakihi, rock lobster, blue cod, seaweed, sea sponges, and some dolphins and seals.