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The Aldermen Islands are often referred
to as the vanishing volcanoes. Hongiora, Ruamahua-iti,
The Spire and Ruamahua-nui Islands (from West to East)
are mere remnants of a once far larger volcanic complex,
consisting of rhyolite domes and associated ignimbrite
and breccia deposits. This group of precipitous, rocky
islands was originally named The Court of Aldermen by
Captain James Cook as he sailed past in 1769, and from
the sea they are certainly a very imposing sight. The
islands have been protected since 1933, and now constitute
one of the most important wildlife sanctuaries in the
region. They are administered as part of the Hauraki
Gulf Maritime Park.
From Tairua we also run regular trips
to Shoe and Slipper Islands, just off the Corormandel
coast.
AWESOME DIVING….. Supporting
depth, abundant marine life and one of our personal
favourites, the Honeycomb Caverns!
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