Tauranga naturalist Nathan Pettigrew introduces his latest stunning video, which features spectacular footage of eagle rays close to Goat Island marine reserve, north of Auckland.

Nathan Pettigrew on his recent trip to Goat Island marine reserve.

On a whirlwind trip up to Auckland to give a talk on marine life, a mate and I managed a quick stop at Goat Island Marine reserve situated just North of the big city.

It is a place that embodies not just the importance of marine reserves, but how successful they are when set up and left to develop their own eco system.

The marine life in this area is simply breath-taking and some big snapper can be seen even before one puts their head under the water (they are often seen from the coastline).

This reserve gives a glimpse into 'yesterday' and how the entire coast might have looked some years ago. Who knows? Perhaps one day we will see more fish stocks without the need for reserves and that is something that I am very hopeful for.

Many people know my videos that showcase marine life (sharks, rays, orcas etc) from my kayak, but I wanted to get IN the water – and in clear water - to film the grace of 'flying' eagle rays up close for myself. And what better place to do it than Goat Island?

With only an hour or so in the water, I had to capture as much as I could, and here are a few shots from that small trip.

If you ever get the chance to get up to Goat Island, then definitely pack your snorkel and mask and jump in to an astonishing array of undersea life. You won't regret it.

Just remember to be respectful of the life that has developed there and adhere to marine reserve rules and regulations.

My tip: I would go in about 30mins before high tide, depending on how long you can handle the water temperature for. This way, the current isn't as strong and the sand isn't churned up as much, meaning visibility will be better.