OUR COAST

Discover the beauty, stories, and spirit of Mercury Bay

At Ocean Leopard Tours, we’re lucky enough to explore this spectacular stretch of coastline every day — and we never take it for granted. “Our Coast” isn’t just a route we travel; it’s part of who we are. From dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters to quiet coves and rich local history, the Mercury Bay coastline is one of the true gems of the Coromandel.

Nature & History

The landscape we travel through is more than just beautiful — it tells a story. Towering rock formations, ancient blowholes, and sea caves were all formed by volcanic forces over millions of years. These natural wonders create the dramatic backdrop for our tours, and they never fail to impress.

But the coastline’s story isn’t only geological. Mercury Bay is rich in cultural heritage. It was home to early Māori communities and is the landing site of Captain Cook in 1769. Places like Cooks Beach and Shakespeare Cliff hold historical significance that we love sharing with our guests. When you travel with us, you’ll hear the stories that connect the land, sea, and people.

Wildlife Encounters

The waters we tour are part of the Te Whanganui-a-Hei Marine Reserve, one of New Zealand’s most pristine protected marine areas. This thriving environment is home to a wide variety of marine life, including stingrays, snapper, and crayfish — and it’s not uncommon to spot dolphins, or even orca or whales in season.

Above the waves, seabirds such as gannets, terns, and shags patrol the cliffs and skies, adding to the rich biodiversity of the region. With our smaller, open-style vessel, you’re closer to the action and have the best seats in the house for observing wildlife in its natural habitat.

Local Knowledge, Real Connection

We’ve been operating out of Whitianga since 2010, and our connection to this coastline runs deep. Every tour we run is guided by that local knowledge — the weather patterns, the best spots to catch the light on Cathedral Cove, and the stories that you won’t find in the guidebooks.

We don’t just show you the postcard sights; we share the hidden beaches, the tucked-away caves, and the deeper appreciation that comes from seeing this place through the eyes of someone who knows it intimately.