WHALE ISLAND (MOUTOHORA)

Whale Island (Moutohora) is smaller (143 hectares) and less well-known than its offshore neighbor, White Island (Whakaari). Moutohora rises to 353 meters and was formed by volcanic activity in the region. Its last eruption dates back to the Pleistocene (11,000 years ago). Since 1965, it has been an important nature reserve, renowned for its whale and dolphin watching. Only the following companies are authorized by the Department Of Conservation (DOC) to operate in the area: Prosail Yacht Charters, Ngāti Awa Tourism Ltd and Diveworks Charters.