Follow the Pacific Coast Highway around the Bay of Plenty and you reach the least visited, ‘undiscovered’ part of the North Island. This is an outdoor paradise of rocky headlands interspersed with scores of golden sand beaches. It is the first place in the world to see the dawn of each new day.
New Zealand’s most active volcano lies 50 km offshore from Whakatane where it continuously lets off steam and releases clouds of ash. The volcano sits on the continental shelf where the White Island Trench runs parallel to the huge abyss of the Kermadec Trench.
The warm Pacific Ocean laps a continuous stretch of long, sandy beaches from Tauranga to Whakatane, and intimate rocky coves extend from there to East Cape. Marine life is abundant and there is accessible diving and snorkelling for everyone in water temperatures that range from 22°C in summer to 12°C in winter.
Less than two hours drive east of Auckland the Coromandel Range thrusts out into the Pacific Ocean. This bush clad scenic finger of land is one of New Zealand’s most popular holiday spots because of its unspoiled coastline, pristine beaches, idyllic offshore islands and rich reefs.
The Hauraki Gulf Maritime Park is a magical playground of 50 islands and countless reef structures right on Auckland’s doorstep. Many of the islands are recreation reserves popular with day-trippers and others are conservation sanctuaries for endangered bird species.
This magnificent bay of 50 islands and innumerable reefs is home to a multitude of marine life including common and bottlenose dolphins, stingrays, manta rays, octopus, moray eels and many fish species.
A sub-tropical climate and superb coastal scenery makes Northland rewarding for any traveller, especially divers.
The southern ocean has many surprises for the adventurous diver who is prepared to brave the cooler temperatures. Otago’s coastline is home to fascinating marine creatures - sea lions, seals, penguins and migratory birds.
Just a day trip away from Auckland is one of the finest dive locations in New Zealand. ‘The Knights’ were rated by the late Jacques Cousteau as being one of the top 10 dive sites in the world.
Driver Information - Travel distance is approximately 198kms (124 miles). Allow at least 2.5 hours drive time (not including stops).
Driver Information - Travel distance is approximately 181kms (113 miles). Allow at least 2.25 hours drive time (not including stops).
Driver Information - Travel distance is approximately 354kms (222 miles). Allow at least 4.5 hours drive time (not including stops). Part of the Surf Highway 45.
