Poor Knights New Zealand as Part of a Private North Island Tour
World-class diving and snorkeling at the Poor Knights Islands marine reserve.
Poor Knights New Zealand is a spectacular marine destination off the east coast of Northland, around 22 km offshore. The Poor Knights Islands Marine Reserve is known for its volcanic cliffs, caves, arches, tunnels and diverse marine life, making it a memorable destination for a private North Island tour.
The reserve can be explored by boat, with opportunities for snorkelling, diving and viewing the islands and surrounding marine environment. The waters around the Poor Knights can be deep and affected by strong currents, so water activities should be undertaken with experienced operators and appropriate local knowledge.
Tutukaka is the main departure point for trips to the Poor Knights Islands, making it a practical addition to a Northland itinerary. Great North Tours can arrange private transport to Tutukaka and include a Poor Knights marine experience within a customised North Island tour.
Whether you are interested in marine life, coastal scenery, photography or exploring one of New Zealand's distinctive offshore destinations, a private itinerary gives your group flexibility to combine the Poor Knights with other Northland attractions and experiences.
Poor Knights Islands FAQ
What are the Poor Knights Islands?
The Poor Knights Islands are a group of volcanic islands off the east coast of Northland, New Zealand. They are surrounded by the Poor Knights Islands Marine Reserve, known for dramatic cliffs, caves, arches, tunnels and diverse marine life.
Where are the Poor Knights Islands located?
The Poor Knights Islands are located off the Tutukaka coast in Northland, approximately 22 kilometres offshore. Tutukaka is the main departure point for boat trips to the islands.
How far offshore are the Poor Knights Islands?
The Poor Knights Islands are approximately 22 kilometres offshore from the east coast of Northland, making them a marine destination reached by boat rather than road.
How do I get to the Poor Knights Islands?
Trips to the Poor Knights Islands generally depart from Tutukaka Marina. Great North Tours can arrange private transport to Tutukaka and include a suitable Poor Knights marine experience within a customised North Island itinerary.
Can I snorkel at the Poor Knights Islands?
Yes. Snorkelling is one of the ways visitors can experience the marine environment around the Poor Knights Islands. Conditions can vary, so activities should be undertaken with an experienced local operator.
Is Poor Knights good for diving?
The Poor Knights Islands are well known for diving, with underwater caves, arches, walls and diverse marine life. The area can have deep water and strong currents, so diving should be undertaken with appropriate experience and local knowledge.
What marine life can I see at Poor Knights Islands?
The marine reserve supports a wide variety of marine life. What you see depends on the conditions and season, but the area is known for its rich underwater environment and diverse marine species.
Why are the Poor Knights Islands protected?
The Poor Knights Islands and surrounding waters are protected as a marine reserve to conserve the area's marine environment. Fishing and taking marine life from the reserve are prohibited.
Can I visit Poor Knights Islands on a private tour?
Yes. Great North Tours can include a Poor Knights marine experience within a private North Island itinerary, allowing your group to combine the islands with other Northland destinations and activities.
Can Great North Tours arrange transport to Tutukaka?
Yes. Great North Tours can provide private transport to Tutukaka as part of a customised North Island tour and help coordinate the marine experience with your wider itinerary.
Can Poor Knights be included in a North Island tour?
Yes. Poor Knights can be incorporated into a customised North Island itinerary, particularly when travelling through Northland. Your itinerary can combine the marine experience with other destinations and activities.
Can I land on the Poor Knights Islands?
No. Visitors cannot land on the Poor Knights Islands. The islands are protected to help preserve their natural environment, so visitors experience the area from the surrounding waters.