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New Zealand > Auckland > Leigh
- Goat
Island Snorkelling
By Angela
 Leigh is situated
just under an hours drive from Auckland. Goat island
is on the coast, right next to Leigh.
The snorkelling
and diving at Goat Island is exceptional because this
island is a marine reserve. It was the first marine
reserves in New Zealand, which helps you see some of
the oldest fish in New Zealand! There is no fishing
or shellfish collecting allowed in any marine
reserve.
You can see
enormous snapper, and a large assortment of brightly
coloured fish to feast your eyes upon. If you’re
lucky you can also see crayfish peeking out of the
rocks.
The underwater
scenery is like a seawater jungle, with swaying
seaweed vines and steep cliff faces, dark corners and
shallow rocks.
When you arrive at
Leigh, you can hire snorkel gear from one of the
shops, and go straight to the island. There is plenty
of parking, though on hot summers day’s you
might find yourself walking a little way to the
island.
When you get to
the waters edge, the island is a few
footsteps/paddles away. There is a small amount of
sand, but this is not a sunbathing beach. It has
large trees and a big flattish area of rock just
under the surface of the water to go right out nearly
to the island, and to familiarise yourself with your
gear.
Once you are
goggled and finned up, take a dive into the wild
side!
Depending on the
weather, there is an enormous amount of time you can
spend searching the wondrous sights under the clear
water. There are heaps of fish, plants and rocks to
observe at any one time.
It is advisable to
take some food with you, and warm clothes as if the
weather turns chilly, you will get really cold very
quickly. There is a nice cafe not to far away called
the Sawmill Cafe, which has live music and a place to
stay if you need it.
It is a beautiful
spot and is relatively safe for swimming and playing.
It does get busy at times, but when your underwater,
you rarely bump into anyone! There is huge expanse of
water to investigate, with ancient snapper so old
they are gnarled, and zebra fish with their black and
white stripes swimming and feeding off the rocks.
There is a glass
bottom boat tour available as well if this tickles
your fancy.
Goat Island is a
magical little place, which deserves your respect and
admiration. It is a great place to take the family,
and learn how to snorkel, or go diving to the depths
of the ocean.
Getting There
Just s short drive from Warkworth.
Islands in the Hauraki Gulf
Kawau, Waiheke, Rangitoto,
Great Barrier, Rakino, Motuihe,
Ponui, Pakatoa, Little Barrier,
Tiritiri Matanga, Motutapu, Motuora,
Motuhaku, Kaikoura, Browns.
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