Fees · Destination Guide
Wellington
Two marine reserves, kelp forests, and wrecks on the doorstep of New Zealand's capital
Key fee: NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority)
NZD $17 (app) or NZD $23 (online), plus IVL
Fees · Destination Guide
Two marine reserves, kelp forests, and wrecks on the doorstep of New Zealand's capital
Key fee: NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority)
NZD $17 (app) or NZD $23 (online), plus IVL
Confirm these fees before you book so your operator plan and day budget match what you will pay onsite.
Wellington's marine reserves do not charge an access fee, but they do have strict no-take rules. Budget for national entry requirements (NZeTA and IVL, where applicable) and any special permits if you plan to visit Kapiti Island itself. Charters, rentals, and guide fees are paid directly to operators.
| Fee | Amount | Applies to | Where to pay | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) | NZD $17 (app) or NZD $23 (online), plus IVL 2 years (multiple trips, where eligible) | Many visa waiver travelers and certain transit travelers | Where to pay | Apply before travel. Processing can be fast but do not leave it to the last minute. Some travelers can stay up to 3 months per visit (up to 6 months for UK passport holders). |
| International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) | NZD $100 Paid with NZeTA or certain visa applications | Most international visitors who require an NZeTA or eligible visas | Where to pay | The IVL charge can change and exemptions apply to some travelers. Confirm the current levy amount during your NZeTA or visa application process. |
| Kapiti Island day visit permit (if landing on the island) | NZD varies (book via authorised services) Per visit | Visitors traveling to Kapiti Island or snorkeling from its shores | Where to pay | DOC notes that you must travel with an authorised boat service and ensure you have a valid day visit permit. |
| Marine reserve access (Taputeranga and Kapiti) | Free Year-round | All visitors | N/A | No-take rules apply: no fishing, no collecting, no damaging natural features, and avoid feeding wildlife. |
Fee
2 years (multiple trips, where eligible)
Apply before travel. Processing can be fast but do not leave it to the last minute. Some travelers can stay up to 3 months per visit (up to 6 months for UK passport holders).
Paid with NZeTA or certain visa applications
The IVL charge can change and exemptions apply to some travelers. Confirm the current levy amount during your NZeTA or visa application process.
Per visit
DOC notes that you must travel with an authorised boat service and ensure you have a valid day visit permit.
Year-round
No-take rules apply: no fishing, no collecting, no damaging natural features, and avoid feeding wildlife.