Even if you’re not a huge enthusiast of the Hobbit’s series, you’ll be aware that New Zealand is one of the most stunning and scenic countries in the world. Among the numerous activities you can partake in during your vacation in New Zealand, make sure to include a session of snorkeling to enhance your wonderful getaway. There are truly remarkable locations for snorkeling in New Zealand, where the waters are as clear as can be, with massive swarms of vibrant fish and coral. It’s so overwhelming that you’ll be unsure of where to begin.
Optimal Time To Visit New Zealand For Snorkeling
The ideal time to visit New Zealand depends on your interests. If you prefer sunny and warm days, then plan your visit from December to March. However, if you’re a snowfall enthusiast, then the months from June to September are your best bet. Regarding the prime time for snorkeling in New Zealand, it’s advisable to plan your vacation during the summer months. December and January are particularly ideal for snorkeling.
6 Finest Locations For Snorkeling In New Zealand
Take a look at the top snorkeling spots in New Zealand to have an exhilarating experience in this beautiful country while you’re on holiday!
1. Goat Island
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Are you searching for places to go snorkeling in Auckland? Look no further than Goat Island, as it’s one of the premier snorkeling destinations in New Zealand. Also recognized as Cape Rodney, this marvelous spot is suitable for both beginners and experts in snorkeling. Every summer, hundreds of tourists flock to this marine reserve to enjoy snorkeling at Goat Island, encountering stingrays, king fish, kahawai, jack mackerel, and massive snappers. And for those who prefer to stay dry, glass bottom boat tours are available too!
The marine life at Goat Island is abundant and vibrant. In fact, it’s among the first underwater reserves in New Zealand. Lucky visitors may even catch a glimpse of seals and dolphins! After your swim with the fish, make sure to pay a visit to the Discovery center, just a short walk from the beach. It’s a fantastic way to familiarize yourself with the marine life in the area.
Location: Auckland, New Zealand
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2. Poor Knights Islands Marine Reserve
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For those of you who are afraid of scuba diving, snorkeling is the following best option. Snorkeling in the bay of islands in New Zealand is an enjoyable way to explore the breathtaking amount of marine life up close. Poor Knight Island Marine Reserve is a popular destination for snorkeling, located just half an hour from Whangarei. The blue ocean at the reserve is home to kelp gardens and exquisite coral fields. It also boasts a great range of not only fish but also stingrays, dolphins, and eels, among other diverse marine mammals and plants.
Swim your way through the Blue Mao Mao Arch to be greeted by large schools of the Blue Mao Mao swimming happily. This reserve is the best place to go snorkeling in the north island of New Zealand. You will find this unique marine reserve on any New Zealand coral reef map. It is also known for hosting the largest sea cave ever discovered in the Southern hemisphere, the Riko Riko Cave. You will absolutely adore swimming in it. Sing your favorite song and listen to it reverberate!
Location: Poor Knights Islands Marine Reserve, Matapouri, New Zealand
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3. Tonga Island Marine Reserve
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There is no shortage of places to go snorkeling in New Zealand. Tonga Island definitely ranks among the top snorkeling spots on the island. This magnificent reserve runs alongside Abel Tasman, a national park renowned for its pleasant weather, secluded coves, and golden-brown sand. The best spot to go snorkeling in this reserve is between Foul Point and Tonga Quarry.
Here, visitors can take a dive to witness tumbled rocks and reefs teeming with a variety of grazing invertebrates. Although there is seaweed in the waters, it is limited to a narrow strip, making it easy to spot turban shells and kina on the seabed. Abel Tasman has numerous sheltered bays and enjoyable activities to partake in besides snorkeling.
Location: South Island of New Zealand
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4. Cathedral Cove
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While this conservation area is distant from the city center, it is conveniently reachable by both automobiles and the boat. Hahei is the nearest settlement from where you can paddle a kayak to the conservation area or enjoy a 30-minute picturesque stroll to the cove. Cathedral Cove is not as congested as other locations for snorkeling and is an enjoyable place to unwind, relax, or have a fantastic time. Gemstone Bay is the main spot for snorkeling in the cove. It is populated by a large variety of fish in different sizes, hues, and forms that are easily observable from the surface. This snorkeling spot is easily reachable from the shoreline, although utilizing a boat will grant you access to numerous other stunning places to snorkel.
Location: Coromandel Peninsula, New Zealand
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5. Te Tapuwae O Rongokako Marine Reserve
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Travel 15 km to the north of Gisborne, and you will arrive at this splendid marine reserve. Once you reach the parking area, a substantial tidal platform awaits you just 50 meters away. This snorkeling platform can be reached by crossing a delightful stretch of white sand beach. It is a remarkable location to relish some excellent snorkeling Auckland. The ideal time to explore the waters is 2-3 hours before the tide is at its lowest, allowing you to walk around the platform and marvel at the vast diversity of marine life. As you snorkel in the area, you will encounter eagle rays, octopuses, crayfish, and vibrantly colored triple fins. It won’t be surprising to have some friendly triple fins swim up to your mask!
Location: Pouawa 4073, New Zealand
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6. Taputeranga Marine Reserve
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Just over 6 km from Wellington on the southern coast is yet another marine sanctuary that is renowned for the finest snorkeling in New Zealand. This sanctuary is easy to reach and is full of marine life and diverse habitats. If statistics are to be trusted, the marine is inhabited by over 180 species of fish. You will have the opportunity to observe rock lobsters, octopuses, anemones, seahorses, and starfish in large numbers! Simply equip yourself with a snorkel and wetsuit and embark on the Island Bay Snorkel Trail for a once in a lifetime experience. The optimal time to go snorkeling in this sanctuary is during the half to full tide. An educational center on the shores is an excellent place to spend an hour enhancing your knowledge about these captivating marine creatures.
Location: Fitzroy Bay 6023, New Zealand
Suggestions For Snorkeling In New Zealand
Here are some recommendations that you should take into consideration to have a thrilling vacation in New Zealand.
- Bring your snorkeling equipment or rent one
- Familiarize yourself with all the gear and snorkeling
- Pay close attention to the instructions given by the trainers and follow them
- Stay calm and avoid getting overwhelmed
- Undergo a medical check-up before attempting snorkeling and address any concerns with the instructor
Further Reading: Top 10 Locations For Water Sports in New Zealand That All Adventure Enthusiasts Must Experience
Snorkeling in New Zealand may not be the initial thought that comes to mind when planning a trip to the island. However, it is a gratifying and memorable activity that you will thoroughly enjoy. The prices are quite reasonable, making it a must-try adventure activity! So, plan a vacation in New Zealand with TravelTriangle and go snorkeling!
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