Hauraki Gulf Marine Park
The Hauraki Gulf Marine Park, spanning 1.2 million hectares is the biggest park of all that you can visit in the Auckland region and is popular with locals and tourists alike.
There are over 50 islands and 5 marine reserves sprawled across the marine park. Islands such as TiriTiri Matangi and Rangitoto-Motutapu are perfect for taking a day-trip to whilst Goat-Island Marine Reserve and Long Bay-Okura Marine Reserve are great places to go for a picnic and have a snorkel amongst the fish and rays.
The park is also home to several species of whale and dolphin including the Nationally Critical Bryde’s whale. You can join an eco-safari with Auckland Whale and Dolphin Safari and spend the afternoon spotting these beautiful animals as well as sharks, fish and sea birds.
