The Poor Knights Islands were the first place I visited in Northland for underwater photography.

The Poor Knights Islands is part of the Poor Knights Islands Marine Reserve and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is an important breeding ground for many species in the Hauraki Gulf. The Islands, which is also known as Puketutu Island, was created by volcanic eruption and is made up of three islands - Tawhiti Rahi, Tawhiti Pounga and Tawhiti Atua. The marine reserve provides a safe place to feed for many sea animals such as sharks, dolphins, seals and penguins. It has an area of 220 hectares and has been under protection since 1925.

Dive into the spectacular Poor Knights Marine Reserve where you can explore an array of mesmerizing sea caves, walls and arches with Dike Tutukaka. As you snorkel or scuba dive, you may spot an array of friendly fish species, as well as spectacular sea anemones and gorgonian corals. Paddle above the surface in a kayak or SUP to catch a glimpse of the Rikoriko Cave, one of the largest sea caves in the world.

Photography info: If possible I would suggest borrowing or purchasing an underwater housing for either your camera or your phone, or a Gopro so you can snap away while snorkeling or diving. If you're going to go the full hog and use your DSLR or Mirrorless camera in an underwater housing, I would suggest fitting a wider angle lens which will allow you to capture the whole underwater scene.

These shots were taken at: Northern Arch, Middle Arch, and Blue Mao Mao Arch