Green vibes on delightful day trip
Bali
Where/what is it?
Goat Island Marine Reserve is about an hour drive north of Auckland. Officially opened in the late 1970s, Goat Island covers the coastal sea between Cape Rodney and Okakari Point.
Why go?
Visitors to New Zealand’s first marine reserve take away a really awesome message about appreciating and respecting our environment.
The calm coves around Goat Island are packed with sealife – lots of snapper, sea urchins and the occasional octopus, ray, whale or dolphin, if you’re lucky.
Swimmers splash around with snorkels, while glass-bottom boats are available for those who want to see under the sea but don’t want to get their feet wet.
On shore, kids frolic on the dark sand, 20-somethings and tourists relax on the grassy knoll and active types take a mildly strenuous coastal walk to check out the views of the ocean.
There’s a discovery centre for those who want to learn more about the plant and animal life, and the importance of an abundant marine reserve like this.
Goat Island is a delightful day trip out of Auckland, and really well-suited for a family friendly adventure.
Insider tip
Get there early if you want to make a day of it. Parking can be tricky (you will find one, but it might be a fiveminute walk up the road) and real estate by the sea fills up fast.
On the way/nearby
Find a parking spot in Matakana village and stop for a stroll around the popular farmers’ markets if you’re there on a Saturday. There are some delicious cafes and watering holes if you’re thirsty on your way back to the big smoke.
If you have time, make a weekend of your visit to Goat Island and book a bed in Leigh. This charming location has a friendly, chilled-out vibe. Grab fish ‘n’ chips from Leigh Eats or check out some live music at the Leigh Sawmill.
How much
Goat Island is free to access, the only cost to get you there is the gas. However, you can hire snorkels, kayaks and buy boat tickets if you want to explore more. There is also a small entry fee for the island’s Discovery Centre.
Best time to go
During weekends over the summer months Goat Island is packed, but don’t let that put you of. Get among it when the sun is out, the water is warmer and visibility is better for spotting sea life. If you can visit Monday to Friday, then you’ll avoid the crowds. – Nicky Park
The writer was a guest of Auckland Tourism.