Map of Leigh

Kids love it at Leigh! Take a tent, take your kayak, go for a paddle and see the fish through the crystal clear water. This really is a place in a million. You can snorkel or scuba dive right off the beach or take a trip on the glass bottomed boat.

The area became the country's first marine reserve in 1975. Since then work has been ongoing to protect this little spot of paradise – it really is a unique coastal area.

On a good day you'll spot snapper, blue maomao and dozens of other species that almost appear to be within arm's reach as you paddle through the water.

For those who enjoy a stroll then you won't be disappointed. There are walkways along the cliff that offer fantastic views. This is one of those places where hours can drift by as you take in the fresh sea air, walk, rest and enjoy the absolute bliss of the area's openness and natural beauty. The locals are very friendly too!

While a visit to Leigh can be an enjoyable day trip, there are options to stay the night and make an adventure of it. Stay in your tent at a local camp ground or at one of the area's B&Bs – you'll be thankful for the extra time to explore this unique area of Rodney.

Just nearby is New Zealand’s only reptile park, you'll find it at Ti Point where a bewildering variety of reptilian wildlife will be found. These include tuatara, alligator, turtles and tortoises.