Intrepid Town: Tutukaka
Dive the Poor Knights Islands
If you're a diver and you haven't dived the Poor Knights yet, then you're seriously missing out. If you haven't dived before then you should definitely make this the top of your adventure itinerary. Ranked by Jacque Cousteau as one of the top ten dive sites in the world, the Poor Knights Islands have won numerous accolades as one of the world's top dive sites. Declared a protected marine reserve in 1981, the sheer volume of fish around the cliffs and reefs of the islands is staggering. The Poor Knights Islands cater to all levels of divers from complete novice to advanced and also offer amazing snorkelling options due to the fact that most of the marine life is present in the top five metres. If you're a snapper fan then experience the ultimate tease and snorkel while tens of snapper swim around you within arms reach. Best time to go, summer between December - March. However it makes a great dive location all year round depending on what type of fish you want to see.
Catch a snapper from your kayak
While the Poor Knights may be a marine reserve and off-limits to fishing, there are still plenty of snapper to be found around the harbour and coast of Tutukaka. The best way to experience this is by kayak. Local adventure company Tutukayax offer a guided snapper fishing experience - from your sea kayak. This is the ultimate way to fish. Head out around the harbour to the mouth of Tutukaka where the snapper school, drop a line and earn your dinner today. The kayaking on its own is a great experience and dolphins are regularly sighted, if you're very lucky you may even see orca, which frequent the area and have recently been sighted right in the Tutukaka harbour. The best time to experience this is summer between December - March.
Schnappa Rock
Fancy a great meal of ribs and a beer after your adventurous day? Schnappa Rock is Tutukaka's number one restaurant and has great fresh fish and a top wine selection. Featuring a great view of the marina and Tutukaka harbour any visit isn't complete without stopping here. www.schnapparock.co.nz
Tutukaka Holiday Park
Get the feel of a real adventure trip, stay at the Tutukaka Holiday Park. A great down to earth atmosphere and a range of accommodation options to suit almost everyone. A giant marlin on the gate should ensure you don't miss this little gem. www.tutukaka-holidaypark.co.nz
In the know
Tutukayax
Offering trips for the true adventurer. Kayak to lighthouse bay, fish for snapper or discover beaches only accessible by kayak. (027)4 901 111, www.tutukayax.co.nz.
Poor Knights Divers
Tutukaka's newest dive charter, designed by divers, for divers. Our 11m power catamaran has been purpose built to enhance your experience at the Poor Knights Islands. 0508 PKDIVE (0508 753 483), www.pkdive.co.nz
Dive Tutukaka
The number one dive operator in New Zealand, Dive Tutukaka offers an unforgettable dive experience at one of the world's foremost diving destinations, the Poor Knights Islands. (09) 4343 867, www.diving.co.nz
Tutukaka Surf Company
The Tutukaka coastline is scenically breathtaking, rugged and rocky, punctuated with white sand surf beaches. Tutukaka Surf Company will introduce you to this awesome part of New Zealand and help you experience the magic that is surf riding, in a safe environment, with qualified coaches. (09) 4343 544, www.tutukakasurf.co.nz
