Why choose to build an underwater observatory in Harrison Cove in Milford Sound?
In the fiords of Fiordland there are many species which are either rare or usually live in much deeper water elsewhere. Black coral fits both these criteria, as it is rare and if found is usually at forty five metre depths or more. The Piopiotahi Marine Reserve This reserve has been formed on the northern side of Milford Sound to preserve the special underwater environment. It extends from Dale Point at the outer end of the Sound to the Bowen Falls and along the end of the runway. All of Milford Sound is closed to commercial fishing, and no interference at all is allowed in the marine reserve half. Milford Deep Underwater Observatory is in the middle of this reserve. Why are deep sea creatures found in shallow water in the fiords? Milford Sound was formed by glaciers. The entrance is narrow and because of the debris which the glaciers pushed forward during the Ice Ages that entrance is also shallow. The result is that the water is comparatively calm and gives a stable environment for t