5 Best Things to Do at Goat Island Marine Reserve

1. Snorkel with the Fish

This doesn’t take much imagining but one of the best things to do in the Goat Island Marine Reserve is to do some snorkelling!

Thanks to decades of protection, marine life here is abundant and surprisingly unafraid of humans. You’ll likely spot snapper, trevally, blue maomao and even stingrays gliding through the clear waters.

Visibility is often excellent, especially on calm days, making it suitable for beginners and experienced snorkellers alike.

You’ll probably want to hire the whole getup, wetsuit and all for those chilly water temperatures. Gear hire and tours are available in the nearby town of Leigh.

Check out other beaches for snorkelling in Auckland.

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2. Clear Kayak

One of the more unique things to do in Goat Island is to jump in a clear kayak and see the fish without even getting wet! These transparent kayaks let you paddle over the reef while watching marine life glide beneath you.

When the swell is calm, you’ll get clear views all the way to the sandy and kelp forest bottom, along with all the creatures that call it home.

It’s a relaxed, beginner-friendly activity and perfect if you’re not keen on snorkelling but still want to see what’s below the surface.

Kayaks are available to hire at the Goat Island Marine Reserve or you can book your clear kayak with Clearyak.

If you’re interested in this, you might also be interested in 10 Islands to Kayak to From Auckland.

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3. Scuba Dive

To spend a little longer with the fish, do some scuba diving! If you’re certified, Goat Island Marine Reserve offers an incredible underwater experience with dive sites ranging from shallow reefs to deeper areas featuring rocky outcrops and kelp forests.

Expect encounters with large snapper, crayfish tucked into crevices and a variety of colourful reef species.

Local operators in Leigh will either rent out equipment or take you on a guided dive. If you’re keen to give it a go but not yet certified, introductory dives are also available. Otherwise, snorkelling is your best option.

For more awesome scuba locations, head to 10 Places to Scuba Dive in New Zealand.

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4. Visit the Goat Island Marine Discovery Centre

Before or after your time in the water, stop by the Goat Island Marine Discovery Centre. Run by the Institute of Marine Science at the University of Auckland, this small but informative centre gives you a great insight into the marine ecosystems surrounding New Zealand through interactive exhibits and aquariums.

It’s a great way to learn about the species you might see while snorkelling or diving, as well as the importance of marine conservation.

There’s even a touch tank where you can see starfish, sea urchins and other creatures of the deep up close.

Plus, it’s affordable at NZ$10, making it especially useful for families or anyone wanting a bit more context about the ecosystem.

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5. Do the Goat Island Walkway

To stretch your legs in Goat Island, do the Goat Island Walkway which follows the cliff tops partway to Cape Rodney.

The short tracks wind along the coastline, offering sweeping views over the reserve and out to Little Barrier Island in the Hauraki Gulf.

It’s a peaceful way to enjoy the area, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way. The walk takes 45 minutes one way.

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