Goat Island
Goat Island Marine Reserve is one of New Zealand’s most astonishing splendours of nature. A live coastal aquarium, Goat Island is home to rare and exotic marine species.
The biggest visitor attraction is the opportunity to scuba dive or snorkel in the crystal clear waters off Goat Island beach, with colourful fish and sea creatures in their natural habitat.
With something for children and adults alike, Goat Island makes an ideal picnic spot for the entire family. For the more adventurous, there are dive charters to the outer islands where you can find an abundance of New Zealand marine life and fish playfully surrounding you.
A Glass Bottom Boat runs trips to give visitors the best possible view of marine life without going underwater. Add to that, there are snorkelling, kayaking, diving classes for beginners.
Situated north of Auckland and just a short distance from Salty Dog Inn, Goat Island and the waters that surround it are designated a scenic reserve by the NZ Department of Conservation. Marine reserves are strictly ‘no-fishing’ and ‘no-take’ areas. The marine life is left to recover and flourish, allowing scientists to investigate ecosystems as nature intended them to be.
The Salty Dog Inn is a short drive from Goat Island Marine Reserve, so consider us if you’re looking accommodation or dining in the area.
