Boating, Fishing, and Diving
Cathedral Cove Scenic Cruises. After coming to Coromandel for 20 years for holidays, owner/operator Ken Hindmarsh decided it was time to move here. Ken has a wealth of knowledge about the local history, geology, and marine life and he’ll share it all with you as he shows you the special spots of this spectacular coastline. He even has an underwater camera installed on his boat, so you can check out the fish without getting wet, or you can jump right in and snorkel. Several tours leave daily from Whitianga Wharf (with Ferry Landing pickups an option). Reservations recommended. Whitianga Wharf, Whitianga, Waikato, 3510. 0800/888--688; www.cathedralcovecruises.co.nz. From NZ$60 .
Cave Cruzer. The Cave Cruzer gives you an unusual spin on an ex-Navy rescue boat, exploring Cathedral Cove, blowholes, and sea caves, with time for snorkeling if you wish. At one point, you'll head into a cave and your guides will provide a surprising acoustical demonstration. Two trip options are the standard 2- to 2½-hour Scenic and Sound, and 1-hour Express. There's no shade on this boat, but lots of personality. 07/866–0611; 0800/427–893; www.cavecruzer.co.nz. From NZ$50 .
Dive Zone Whitianga. The place in Whitianga to go for scuba diving gear, training, and dive boat trips, this company runs PADI courses right up to five-star instructor development level. 7 Blacksmith La., Whitianga, Waikato, 3510. 07/867–1580; www.divezonewhitianga.co.nz.
Glass Bottom Boat. Glass Bottom Boat cruises take you to Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve, where you can see multitudes of marine life through the bottom of their boat. Informed guides discuss the formation and history of the land, Captain Cook's explorations along this coast during the 1700s, the Ngāti Hei, the Māori tribe who were the earliest settlers of the region, and more recent history of Narnia film locations. Daily trips year-round (10:30 am and 1:30 pm) plus 8 am and 4 pm, December to February (weather permitting), all leave from Whitianga Wharf. The trips take two hours. When the water's warm, they'll also stop for a snorkel. Bookings are essential. 07/867–1962; www.glassbottomboatwhitianga.co.nz. From NZ$95.
Water's Edge Charters. This highly experienced operator charters fishing and diving trips, specializing in half and full day outings, from Whitianga Marina. Skipper Craig will also share local stories and show you the great scenery and abundant birdlife. 07/866–5760.
Whitianga Sports Centre. You can rent both diving and fishing gear from the Whitianga Sports Centre. 32 Albert St., Whitianga, Waikato, 3510. 07/866–5295.
