Tutukaka: Natural Harbour and Gateway to the Poor Knights

Tutukaka is a sheltered natural harbour and a gateway to the Poor Knights Islands Marine Reserve. Tutukaka Marina is the main departure point for boat trips to the reserve; fishing charters also depart from the modern marina. This gives you two clear ways to plan your time on the water: a trip to the Poor Knights or a fishing excursion. If you’re looking for accommodation in Tutukaka, you can first consider which of these experiences you want to shape your stay and how much time you plan to spend out on the water.

Islands and Coastal Landscapes

The Poor Knights Islands lie close to Tutukaka. They are the remains of a group of ancient volcanoes; the sea has shaped the islands into a network of caves, tunnels and cliffs. For planning your trip, it’s helpful to consider the contrast with the Tutukaka Coast: Tutukaka is also a gateway to its white-sand beaches. This gives you two different options: the island and seascapes around the Poor Knights, or the beaches along the coast.

Tutukaka Marina is the main departure point for boat trips to the marine reserve. If you’re interested in a day trip with Dive! Tutukaka, the marina is also the stated departure point: the day trip begins there. Four Dive! Tutukaka dive boats are also based at the marina. The fleet may change, as can departure times and trip conditions. Check the operator’s latest information when planning your time on the water.

Plan Diving and Activities

For those interested in diving, Dive! Tutukaka offers different ways to learn about training and trips. Shed 7 is a modern training centre in the heart of Tutukaka, with a 3-metre-deep dive pool. Dive! Tutukaka also offers a PADI Open Water beginner course that includes pool training and four open-water dives at the Poor Knights Islands. The course combines pool training with dives in the sea; it is different from the day trip, which departs from the marina. Courses and schedules may change. If you’re considering a course for your trip, check the latest dates before making plans.

Fishing charters also depart from the modern marina. You can tailor your stay to the experience you have in mind: spend a day on a boat trip, a course or a fishing excursion, or focus on the beaches of the Tutukaka Coast for a different kind of coastal experience.

Getting Around the Harbour

On the north shore of Tutukaka Harbour, a signposted right-of-way provides access from Matapouri Road to the reserve. Access may be subject to local safety and privacy requirements; please take these into account when visiting. Tutukaka Marina also offers overnight berths for boats. Availability may change, so check in advance if you plan to use this service. Boat berths are separate from accommodation on land.

Whether your trip is shaped by diving, a boat trip, a fishing charter or the white-sand beaches of the Tutukaka Coast will determine the best focus for your plans. Tutukaka combines a sheltered natural harbour with access to these different coastal experiences. Decide which activities you’d like to do and check the relevant departures and offerings before choosing your accommodation.

Explore More Destinations

Explore more destinations: Ruatangata West, Whangarei, Parua Bay, Kauri, Helena Bay, Whangarei Heads, Ngunguru, Langs Beach.

For the main travel overview: Whangarei District.