Did you know that Aotearoa's marine biodiversity ranked the highest in the world for the proportion of endemic species? Explore Aotearoa's vibrant underworld and diverse marine life on this 12- day marine exploration tour. Travelling up the North Island coast, you can visit world-renowned marine reserves bustling with life. Partake in incredible water-based adventures, from a relaxing sun-drenched yacht voyage, free diving in a marine reserve to dolphin and whale encounters!
Plan Your Tour
Category: Adventure, Active and Nature
Location: North Island
Departing/Finishing: Paihia - Auckland (Itinerary can be reversed)
Accommodation: 4* or 5* luxury hotels, Boutique B&Bs, Luxury Lodges, it's up to you!
Next Departure: Departs Daily
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Auckland is a magical urban environment where everyone lives within half an hour of beautiful beaches, hiking trails and a dozen enchanting holiday islands. Auckland is home to a sunny climate, a background rhythm of Polynesian culture, and a passion for outstanding food, wine and shopping, and you’re beginning to get the picture of Auckland.
As you arrive, you will be transferred to your chosen accommodation and have a top-notch dinner at a locally renowned restaurant on the waterfront of Auckland harbour.
Arrive at the glorious Goat Island (Cape Rodney/Okakari Point Marine Reserve) to start off your marine adventure, Goat Island is Aotearoa's first and most accessible marine reserve, being just out of Auckland.
Goat Island Marine reserve (Cape Rodney/Okakari Point Marine Reserve) was established in 1975 and fast became a thriving protected marine ecosystem with such multifarious marine species. The need for marine conservation in Aotearoa is high, as this area was once a victim of overfishing and exploitation. Now, it couldn't be more thriving! Experience the true beauty of Goat Island, explore by snorkelling and immersing yourself in this diverse aquatic environment, or watch from a birds-eye view and take a glass-bottomed boat out into the reserve! Home to such an array of species, you will surely be astonished by what you see.
Matakana is a unique little village just 45 minutes away from Auckland CBD, renowned for its rural setting infused with modern-day sophistication. Matakana has an array of specialties, from award-winning wine and artisanal food to contemporary boutiques, markets and showrooms. Matakana is just teeming with energy. You can stay at Matakana while on your Goat Island exploration journey!
Omaha Beach is simply an hour’s drive north of Auckland and is boardered by the picturesque Matakana Wine Country and vineyard estates. Only a short drive to Goat Island Marine reserve rests the beautiful scenic town of Omaha, home to a world-class white sandy beach. Omaha beach is the perfect meach to partake in offshore activities, such as paddle boarding, windsurfing, surfing and more! With crystal clear waters and crisp air, you will never want to leave.
Experience a fresh Oyster farm and visit Mataka Oysters. Matakana Oysters opened in 2006 with a passion for providing the taste of the sea to hungry passersby. All the oysters at Matakana Oysters are caught straight from wild ecosystems and then placed into a pre-prepared oyster farm for reproduction. Visit this magical farm, watch the process unfold for yourself, and leave with the taste of the New Zealand sea!
Mangawhai (Mangawhai Heads) sits between the Pacific coast and rural landscaped. Rich with coastal gems and shoreside experiences, Mangawhai is the perfect seaside town to continue your marine exploration journey! You can access a pristine surf beach and a life-filled harbour to fulfil all your needs. Mangawhai offers a spectrum of experiences, including water sports, charters for fishing and even free diving!
Offshore Adventures Fishing Charters offers a highly rated charter fishing experience, where you can explore Mangawhai's stunning aquatic landscape by custom-built boat. Offshore Adventures aims to offer the ultimate sport fishing experience, providing you with an experienced guide and captain. Learn more about New Zealand's endemic fish species, and catch a few for Kai!
Poor Knights Island Marine Reserve is a sought-after diving location known all around the globe. In addition, poor Knights Islands are home to some of the world's most recognised marine treasures, home to the Rikoriko Cave, one of the world's largest sea caves. Poor knights is home to some extraordinarily diverse marine species; nestled in underwater seaweed forests and deeply imprinted rock caves, you'll find some genuinely wondrous life forms.
On your first day visiting Poor Knights Islands, you'll have the opportunity to take the 'perfect day' aboard a boat, where you can partake in many marine activities. Experience snorkelling amongst a thriving ecosystem of aquatic species, kayaking amongst the reefs, exploring historic caves and learning about the rich historical significance of Poor Knights Islands. In addition, you have the chance to spot whales, dolphins and other awe-inspiring wildlife and marine mammals.
After an action-filled day, relax on the boat and soak up some pacific sun.
Scuba diving is centred around harnessing your inner strength and taking situations into your own hands. Scuba is a meditative and transformational experience involving breathwork, silence and nature exploration.
Please note: If you wish to participate in another activity, we can change the itinerary!
Day two of your scuba diving adventure is here! Venture out into the warm tropical seas. On the second day, you will complete your open-water dives at the world-renowned Poor Knights Islands. You will complete two dives per day, the final days diving to a maximum of 18 metres!
During the dives, you can put your skills into exercise. You will be granted an electronic certification upon fulfilment of the course!
Day three of your scuba diving adventure is here! Venture out on your final day into the warm tropical seas again. On the third day, you will complete your open-water dives at the world-renowned Poor Knights Islands. You will complete two dives daily, to a maximum of 18 metres!
During the dives, you can put your skills into exercise. You will be granted an electronic certification upon fulfilment of the course!
The historic township of Russell, in the Bay of Islands, was the first capital of New Zealand. Drive to Russel and visit a local vineyard, and taste some beautiful wine intentionally paired with fresh seafood dishes.
In Paihia, swim with dolphins, kayak, fish, or explore the pristine beaches. Investigate the spectacular Haruru Falls or learn about New Zealand's indigenous culture where the Treaty of Waitangi was initially signed. Have a relaxing day at sea and hop aboard the Bayscapes Charter; enjoy a Sailing Day Trip with a fresh Lunch! Visit the locally famous Hole in the Rock, and partake in a spectacular Dolphin Cruise, where you will see the beautiful scene of dolphins diving alongside the boat. Then, travel by air and explore the rest of the North Island; take the Cape Reinga Half-Day Tour Scenic Flight journey. Then explore Paihia and Russel, wind down and have dinner at a local eatery.
Say goodbye to the Northern Coast, and return back to Auckland for departure!
