We look forward to having you view the venue and discussing your ideas on how to make your special wedding holiday unique.
Did you know that The Hatchery is situated in an MPA? What is an MPA you may ask and how does it affect my stay at The Hatchery? Let us shed some light on this important initiative that helps manage and protect our marine environment.
A Marine Protected Area (MPA) is an area of coastline or ocean that is specially protected for the benefit of people and nature. According the "Marine Protected Areas" website (Click here) MPAs help manage part of the marine environment to promote fisheries sustainability, keep marine ecosystems working properly, and protect the range of species living there, helping people to benefit from the ocean.
In South Africa, MPAs are declared through the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act. The IUCN provides a global definition of MPAs and notes that an area needs to meet the IUCN protected area definition to qualify and be recognised as an MPA : “A clearly defined geographical space, recognised, dedicated, and managed, through legal or other effective means, to achieve the long-term conservation of nature with associated ecosystem services and cultural values” — IUCN
In a nutshell, this means beautiful deserted beaches all the way to uThukela River – It also means an inshore restricted fishing zone with Shore fishing only allowed north of the river mouth. By observing the rules there are likely to be some decent catches just north of the MPA! Luckily for our guests we have our beach safari option and you have an option to hire a gilly (local and experienced helper) for the day to guide you through the tricky legislation.
For your convenience.. Here is a pdf so that you have peace of mind that you are on the right side of the law! Click here to view the uTHUKELA MPA for smart phone Document
