Excursion Tatapouri reef & stingrays tour at Gisborne

Experience this interactive reef tour that immerses you in the dynamic marine ecosystem that surrounds the waters of New Zealand's East Coast. Explore Tatapouri Bay, home to stingrays (whai), eagle rays and other reef dwellers, on this fascinating and educational tour.

Tatapouri Bay, Wainui Beach

Board a comfortable motor coach with your driver-guide and travel north along the Pacific Coast highway to your coastal destination, Tatapouri Bay, enjoying views of Wainui Beach along the way. Only 30-minutes away, you will find Dive Tatapouri, a family-owned operation. Be greeted warmly by the staff upon your arrival and be outfitted in waders (high-waisted waterproof pants) and then take to the water with your knowledgeable guide to explore Tatapouri Bay's fascinating reef at low tide.

Tatapouri Reef & Stingrays

Be led by your guide to the nearby rocky reef shelf, where they will attract the stingrays with food. It only takes a few handfuls of food and the stingrays will be right next to you. Keep a keen eye out for short-tail stingrays, eagle rays, octopus, conger eels, yellowtail kingfish and more. You'll be amazed at the grace and gentleness of these wild sting rays and eagle rays swimming in their natural environment. The experience is perfectly safe as a naturalist guide will be with you at all times. Learn also about the rich marine life in this area, which has been harvested by the local Maori people for many hundreds of years.

Refreshment

At the completion of the day, light refreshments are served, and the naturalist will stay to speak with you further about the environment and about the Maori people and their settlements along the coastline.

Re-board your coach and relax on the scenic drive back to the pier area.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion may include: Coastal Highway, Tatapouri Reef, Stingrays

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking and is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilize a wheelchair. Walking at the beach and into the water you may encounter uneven surfaces. You will be in shallow water, up to your waist for most guests, for the encounter. Approximately 250 meters (273 yards) of leisurely walking is required. We suggest wearing comfortable clothing and water shoes and well as sun protection. Bring a towel and bottled water with you from the ship. Guests must be 6 years of age to participate. While wildlife sightings are common, they cannot be guaranteed. Please note that the experience is tide-dependent and may be subject to cancellation.