Free diving in New Zealand: the best spots

Free diving is a form of underwater diving that relies on breath-holding to extend the amount of time a diver can stay underwater. It is a popular activity among both recreational and competitive divers because it allows divers to explore the underwater world without the need for bulky and expensive scuba equipment.

New Zealand is home to some of the best free diving spots in the world, with crystal clear waters and an abundance of marine life. Here are some of the best places to go free diving in New Zealand:

1. Cathedral Cove, Coromandel Peninsula

Cathedral Cove is a marine reserve located on the Coromandel Peninsula, just a short drive from Auckland. The reserve is home to a variety of fish and other marine life, making it a popular spot for snorkelling and free diving.

The cove gets its name from the large natural archway that has been carved out of the cliff face by years of wave action. This archway is a popular spot for divers to swim through and is also home to a variety of colourful fish.

2. Poor Knights Islands, Northland

The Poor Knights Islands are a group of islands off the coast of Northland, New Zealand. The islands are home to a marine reserve which is a popular spot for snorkelling, free diving and scuba diving.

The Poor Knights Islands are known for their clear waters and abundant marine life. The islands are also home to a variety of wrecks, making them a popular spot for divers of all levels.

3. Goat Island, Northland

Goat Island is a marine reserve located just north of Auckland in Northland, New Zealand. The reserve is home to a variety of fish and other marine life, making it a popular spot for snorkelling and free diving.

Goat Island is also home to a colony of little penguins, making it a popular spot for birdwatchers. The island is accessible by boat or by a short walk from the mainland.

4. Tawharanui Regional Park, Auckland

Tawharanui Regional Park is located just north of Auckland in Northland, New Zealand. The park is home to a marine reserve which is a popular spot for snorkelling, free diving and scuba diving.

The clear waters of the marine reserve make it a popular spot for divers of all levels. The reserve is also home to a variety of fish and other marine life, making it a popular spot for snorkellers.

5. Muriwai Beach, Auckland

Muriwai Beach is located just west of Auckland on the North Island of New Zealand. The beach is a popular spot for surfing, swimming and free diving.

Muriwai Beach is also home to a colony of gannets, making it a popular spot for birdwatchers. The beach is accessible by car or by a short walk from the nearest train station.