One of the World’s top dive Locations:Northland, New Zealand
The poor knights lslands,vestiges of a chain of ancient volcanoes, rise from the edge of Newzeland’s northeastern continental shelf .swept by the warm east Auckland current, they support a rich mix of subtropical and temperature marine fauna found nowhere else in the country. They are widely considered to be one of the world’s top 10 dive sites.
During the last ice age, surf pounded the rocky beaches now submerged,scouring sea caves (Rikoriko is one of the greatest in the world ),Tunnels, and arches in the softest rock.
Today,Plankton rich current sweep through them, nourishing sponge gardens,ranks of soft corals,anemones,zoooanthids,and gorgoniam field.Lush kelp forests carpet the sleep undersea cliffs,offering shelter over 150 pelagic and reef fish species,including subtropical rarities.Balck coralraches up from the dark depths and school of stingrays hang in the swirling currents. Above the surface,hordes of seabirds including 2.5 million bullers shear waters,nest in the steep cliffs,which they may share with the ancient tuatara lizard. Venomous centipedes and gaint weta, aspecific bush cricket,share the scrubby cliff. Tops with flax snalis and geckoks.
How to Go Poor Knight Islands from Auckland Airport
You can choose to best travel path to reach Poor knight island
Option 01: Fly Auckland to Whangarei, travel
Trip time duration: 1 and 37min
Option 02: Fly Auckland to Kerikeri, travel
Trip time duration:2h 24min
Option 03: Bus, travel
Trip time duration: 5h 27min
Diving and snorkeling Experience
Diving in the Poor Knights Islands is a breathtaking experience that offers the opportunity to explore an underwater paradise filled with diverse marine life, fascinating rock formations, and clear blue waters. The islands are renowned for their marine biodiversity and unique underwater landscapes, making them a popular destination for divers from around the world. Here’s what you can expect from a diving experience in the Poor Knights Islands:
- Marine Life: The Poor Knights Islands are home to a rich array of marine species, including fish, rays, sharks, dolphins, and more. The islands’ unique underwater topography, which includes caves, arches, and tunnels, provides habitats for a wide variety of creatures.
- Caves and Archways: The islands are famous for their impressive underwater caves and archways, which divers can explore. These geological formations offer a sense of adventure and a chance to witness stunning play of light and shadows.
- Kelp Forests: Beneath the surface, you’ll find kelp forests swaying gently with the current. These underwater forests provide shelter and food for various marine species and create an enchanting underwater atmosphere.
- Coral Reefs: The coral reefs surrounding the Poor Knights Islands are vibrant and diverse. Snorkelers and divers alike can marvel at the colorful corals and the creatures that call them home.
- Manta Rays: One of the highlights of diving in the Poor Knights Islands is the opportunity to encounter graceful manta rays. These majestic creatures are known to frequent the area and can provide awe-inspiring moments for divers lucky enough to spot them.
- Guided Tours: To experience the best of the Poor Knights Islands’ underwater beauty, it’s recommended to join a guided diving tour. Tour operators offer various packages, including day trips, multi-day excursions, and options for different skill levels, from beginners to experienced divers.
- Equipment: Most guided tours provide the necessary diving equipment, including wetsuits, masks, fins, tanks, and regulators. If you’re a certified diver, you may also have the chance to bring your own equipment.
- Conservation: The Poor Knights Islands are a marine reserve, and it’s important to adhere to conservation guidelines and practices while diving. Avoid touching or disturbing marine life, refrain from collecting souvenirs, and follow the “leave no trace” principle.
- Weather and Visibility: Weather conditions can impact the diving experience. Visibility is generally good, but it can vary depending on the weather and tides. The summer months (December to February) typically offer warmer water temperatures and calmer seas.
Dramatic Topography
Some of nature’s most magnificent works of art, including spectacular sea caves, cliffs, and arches, are produced by the submerged and above-water geology. Kayakers, SUP aficionados, scuba divers, and snorkelers will all find the ideal experience.
The Rikoriko Cave(opens in new window), one of the biggest sea caves in the world, is located in the Poor Knights. It is also possible to explore a number of arches, such as the Blue Maomao Arch, the Northern Arch, and many others, as well as a number of walls, such as the Magic Wall and Brady’s Corner/Meditation Wall.
