Half an hour north-east of Whangarei, Tutukaka is the gateway to the Poor Knights Islands marine reserve. The Poor Knights have been rated as one of the top-ten dive sites in the world with clear waters and an abundance of sea life. The world's largest sea cave can be found here; it is an amazing 7,900,000 cubic feet, with over a hectare of sea surface area inside the cave itself!
The Poor Knights have a rich cultural history and were home to a local Maori tribe (Ngati Wai). But since their bloody massacre in 1822 the islands have been labelled tapu (sacred), with no one allowed to set foot ashore thus becoming a very special Nature Reserve.
Other ‘ocean’ related activities in the area include, kayaking, sailing, game fishing, cruises and snorkelling. There are also tracks, walks, horse riding and a golf course close by.
Tutukaka Coast.com has more info.
