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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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