Tutukaka - The Paradise Coast
Some 30km north-east of
Whangarei, this tranquil stretch of coastline is often described as the Paradise Coast, and for good reason. With world-class diving, stunning beaches and coastal walkways, and a mild sub-tropical climate,
Tutukaka Coast is one of the country’s best kept secrets.
The jewel in its crown, and a paradise for divers, are the famous Poor Knights Islands, a remnant of the ancient volcanoes that erupted in the Pacific Ring of Fire 11 million years ago. The islands’ volcanic origins provide spectacular drop offs, walls, caves arches and tunnels, all inhabited by an amazing array of underwater life.
Named by Jacques Cousteau as one of the world’s top 10 dive sites, the islands are a special experience for divers and snorkellers, with a unique blend of subtropical and temperate marinelife. Over 125 species of fish share this complex marine environment, along with soft corals, sponges, vibrant anemones, sting rays, gorgonian fans and vast kelp forests. Beneath the waters you’ll also find the world’s largest sea cave, Rikoriko, reputed to have hidden a marauding Japanese submarine during World War II. Cruises often stop in this giant cavern to sample the amazing acoustics and watc
h the school of bright fish in the waters below.
Above the tideline, these ancient islands with their sheer 100m cliffs are tinged red in November and December by masses of flowering pohutukawa, so now is a great time to visit. For those interested in nature, the islands are home to some of New Zealand’s rarest native species, among them the giant weta, the bellbird, and the tuatara – the world’s only surviving dinosaur. The rich wildlife includes sea and forest birds, gannet colonies and several petrel species, which visit in their tens of thousands to nest, along with dolphins, whales and seals.
If you’d like to dive into a Poor Knights adventure, then pay a visit to
Dive! Tutukaka, on Marina Road, at the Poor Knights Dive Centre. This award-winning operator offers 364-day-a-year dive charters, PADI training for all levels, air-fills and full equipment hire – and they will tailor-make your dive experience to suit your level of ability. Visitors also have the option of a spectacular
Perfect Day eco cruise aboard a 23m jet-powered adventure boat. Relax in air-conditioned comfort, kayak, snorkel, dive for the first time, or just lie back and soak up the sunshine and dramatic views.
Useful websites
First image above courtesy of Roger Grace
Second and third image courtesy of Dive! Tutukaka