Poor Knights Islands Marine Reserve

This marine reserve off the northeastern coast spans about 2,500 hectares of ocean with steep volcanic cliffs that drop into underwater caves. Dense kelp forests cover the seafloor and create a complex habitat for fish and marine animals.

Maori people inhabited these islands until tribal conflicts in the 1820s forced them to leave and settle elsewhere. Since then the waters have been protected for marine life to thrive.

The islands held deep meaning for Maori people who lived here and gathered food from the waters and land. Today you can see traces of ancient storage structures and fortifications that mark their past presence.

You can only reach this reserve by boat from the nearby coastal town, and guided diving and snorkeling tours run during the warmer months. Check conditions before you go and book with experienced guides, since the sea can be rough and unpredictable.

One remarkable feature is a massive sea cave called Rikoriko Cave, which ranks among the largest sea caves in the world by interior volume. Divers can swim directly into this natural cavern and experience its enormous scale firsthand beneath the water.

GPS coordinates: -35.56674,174.70600

Latest update: December 14, 2025 09:41