What to do around Tutukaka?
Aside from the amazing SCUBA DIVING at the Poor Knights islands or SNORKELLING at the Poor Knights with Dive Now, there is plenty for you to do in the local area.
Relax and hang around Tutukaka and watch the world go by from one of the eateries. Or for an active choice; go for a scenic walk, explore a beach, take a yoga class, go surfing or even get a tattoo.fo
Poor Knights Islands Marine Reserve
Scuba Diving at Poor Knights Islands.
Explore the underwater beauty of this world class marine reserve. See schooling fish, eels, stingrays and nudibranchs in the sub-tropical eco-system.
Snorkelling at the Poor Knights Islands.
You do not need to be a scuba diver to enjoy the wonders of the Poor Knights Marine reserve and the myriad of fish that live just beneath the surface.
Beaches
Northland is known for its beautiful beaches and within 15 minutes drive of Tutukaka there are some stunners.
Grab a burger or fish and chips at Ngunguru on the estuary as you head along the Tutukaka coast.
A stunning, crescent-shaped cove with relatively calm waters. At the southern end of the beach, a tidal estuary provides sun warmed sheltered paddling area, This is especially ideal for young children and kayakers.
Grab an Ice Cream at the Matapouri Bay Store.
Enjoy a walk through native bush down to this pristine beach.
Grab a surf board or boogie board and join the fun. Need a board or even a surf lesson? Then visit Surf Tutukaka.
Walk the dog, go for a swim or kayak.
Local Walks
This 1.1km each way walk through stands of pūriri, pōhutukawa and kōwhai
A six hour return walk (or quicker by mountain bike) across hilly farmland. Enjoy views of secluded beaches before reaching the Whananaki bridge where on the other side, an ice cream and cold drink should be available at the local dairy.
A 2.4km return walk with steep inclines. Low tide required to reach the light house. Check the tides so you don’t get stuck. You can start this walk from Tutukaka marina opposite Whangārei Deep Sea Anglers Club. Look for a short, steep bush track that climbs straight up the hill to Landowners Lane. Once on the lane, turn right and follow the quiet road down to the official trailhead.
Local Sites
Come and watch the Hatea River drop 26 metres over the falls on it’s way to Whangarei town basin.
28.6 metre high with a girth of 9.9 metres, it’s the largest Kauri on the East coast.