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Goat Island Reserve

Goat Island Rd, Leigh, North Island 0985 New Zealand

6 Reviews
Free
Free to Visit
Open Now
Sun 12a-11:59p
  • Independent
  • Public
    Restrooms
  • No Wifi
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Learn more about this business on Yelp.

“Some of the best snorkelling and scuba diving in New Zealand.”

Goat Island, the local name for Cape Rodney/Okakari Point Marine Reserve, was New Zealand's first marine reserve. It was established in 1975 and in less than 10 years it became a rich ecological area, teeming with fish and other sea life.

Previously the area had been overfished, so this transformation illustrated the value of conservation.Beneath the waves habitats range from rocky shores and sandflats to deep reefs, underwater cliffs and canyons. Each habitat has its own community of sea creatures.

The best way to experience the reserve and its inhabitants is to get into the water. With a mask and snorkel you can explore the sand and rocks close to shore while scuba divers can visit deeper areas further out. Divers need to be careful not to break off small fragile animals such as gorgonian fans, lace corals and sponges - some of these are hundreds of years old.In shallow areas of the reserve, particularly off the main beach, you will see many varieties of fish and shellfish. At low tide you can explore the rocky shore, taking care not to disturb rock pool creatures.

Two coastal walkways leading from Goat Island Bay through coastal forest offer spectacular coastal views and quiet picnic spots. One walkway leads from the western end of the car park, the other from the driveway to the marine laboratory.

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Photo of Jenn C.

Reviewed by
Jenn C.

People in New Zealand -- the West Pacific -- think that water is "really cold" and requires a wetsuit when it is somewhere in the mid 70s F -- but for me -- that's the perfect temperature. Over... Read more

Photo of David M.

Reviewed by
David M.

One of my favourite daytrips out of the city is a visit to Goat Island, in the small town of Leigh. Goat Island offers plenty of fine attractions to keep you entertained for the day, and if the... Read more

Photo of Makanaka T.

Reviewed by
Makanaka T.

The golden beach at Goat Island is the place I completed one of my bucket list items : to skinny dip. It all happened on a sunny afternoon when my boyfriend and I decided to get away from the... Read more

Goat Island Reserve

Goat Island Rd
Leigh
North Island
0985 New Zealand
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Hours

Open 24 hours today
  • Sun - Sat: 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

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    Parking
  • Unavailable
    Pets Allowed
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    Restrooms
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    Wifi
  • Unknown
    Wheelchair Accessible
  • Unknown
    Credit Cards Accepted
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