Heavy rainfall runs off from the surrounding mountains creates a permanent and thick freshwater layer, which is sheltered from mixing with ocean swells.

[4] The reserve was part of a conservation strategy the Fiordland Marine Guardians launched in 2002 and presented to the Ministry for the Environment Marian Hobbs and Minister of Fisheries Pete Hodgson in 2003.

[7] Educational and scientific activities are encouraged, but must not disturb or endanger plants, animals or natural features.

[3] The protected marine life can be viewed by diving or snorkelling, either independently or with a tourism or charter boat service.

However, members of Ngāi Tahu may remove pounamu provided they have the right authorisation, only collect by hand, keep disturbance to the site to a minimum, and only carry as much as they can in one trip.