Get below the surface at the Poor Knights. © Jack Austin

Discover the magical marine environment of the Poor Knights

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It’s a pretty big accolade to have a renowned marine expert rate a dive site as one of the top ten in the world. But Jacques Cousteau picked the Poor Knights. 

23 kilometres off the coast of Tutukākā in Northland, the ancient volcanoes that make up the Poor Knights islands are a renowned nature reserve on land as well as a myriad of marine life below the waves. 

Discover an underwater wonderland of drop offs, walls, arches and caves teeming with abundant sea life. 

In this confluence of currents next to the continental shelf, there is an astonishing array of life, from  well-known species like trevally, kingfish and snapper to tropical visitors carried from warmer waters and a vibrant selection of colourful sponges and anemones. 

Whether you’re an experienced diver, a snorkeler, or keen to stay above water on a SUP, the Poor Knights are one of New Zealand’s highlights. 

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