Poor Knights Island (Tawhiti Rahi) Rikoriko Cave hidden from sight in the North.

Located just 12nm from Tutukaka on the Poor Knight Island you will find hidden from sight, the Rikoriko Cave on Aorangi Island, hidden from sight as you can’t really see it until you approach it from the North.

The cave was formed by a gas bubble from an eruption millions of years ago and it Rikoriko Cave measures 130 by 80 metres (430 by 260 ft), with a ceiling height of 35 metres (115 ft) and extends 26 metres (85 ft) deep below water.

As you steam closer the cave opens up to a vast cavern, a mere 221,494 cubic mts in volume to be exact, this is the largest cave in the world by volume which has an opening large enough to fit 2-4 reasonable sized vessels at one time.

The waters around and inside the cave is teem with snapper, kingfish and more species of fish than you could count but remember this is a marine reserve so no fishing…

There are a few obvious cautions, don’t anchor in the cave, take your time entering the cave as you won’t be able to see the boats that may already be inside until you are on top of them avid the cave in a northern swell set and feeding the fish is a no no.

You will be able to turn your boat around once inside which make for awesome photos.

Another caution is be ready for your “No GPS Signal” alarm to go off, with no view of the sky you will lose your GPS signal, the sounding alarm can often startle  the unsuspecting skipper & crew, don’t panic just push mute.

There is loads of amazing diving all around the poor knights so make sure you allow time to stop through on your summer cruise this year.

Enjoy, be safe & we will see you in the North.