Gallivanting at Goat Island

Summer days are, indeed, here in Auckland and it’s the perfect time to hit the beach. One great place to go to get a tan, a good look at the underwater marine life, or simply hang out with family and friends is the Goat Island Marine Reserve.

Goat Island Marine Reserve

Just about 83.5 km, an hour and 20 minute-drive from the Central Business District of Auckland to Goat Island Road  is New Zealand’s first marine reserve. Along Goat Island Road is the Seafriends Marine Conservation and Education Centre,  which will hire all the equipment needed for diving and snorkelling. Goat Island Dive would also be a good source for the same, as well as for kayaks and underwater scooters for hire. There’s ample parking right before the small bridge that leads to the beach.

A treat would be taking a ride on the Glass Bottom Boat, “Aquador”. Running for more than 12 years, the Aquador has been specifically designed to offer passengers the best possible view of marine life without having to go underwater. The boat can comfortably seat up to 49 passengers, with an easy access ramp. The 45-minute Around the Island Trip is most popular, which includes the outer reefs and big cavees of Goat Island. Adults are charged $25 each and children pay $13 each. A family pass, though, would only cost $70 (2 adults and 2 children). The Inner Island Trip, on the other hand, is for 30 minutes, which is an alternative to the Around the Island Trip during less fair weather. This costs $20 per adult and $10 per child, while the family pass is $53. Make sure, though, that the boat will be making a trip on the day you plan to go to Goat Island. Call (09) 422 6334 or email: info@glassbottomboat.co.nz beforehand.

Photo credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/roberthoran/