Marine tourism has seen a spike in popularity in the local visitor economy, with more businesses seeing an off-season spike.
As travellers increasingly seek meaningful and environmentally responsible experiences, eco-tourism is becoming one of the most important growth opportunities for New Zealand's visitor economy. Hibiscus JetSki Hire & Tours, a locally owned marine tourism business operating from Auckland’s Hibiscus Coast on the Whangaparāoa Peninsula, is showing that adventure, education and environmental responsibility can also happen on a personal watercraft or jet ski.
Owned by marine scientist and tourism operator Dr. Jürgen Kolb, the business combines jet ski hire, self-led island safaris, marine eco-tourism experiences and local environmental education across Whangaparāoa, Big Manly Beach and the wider Hauraki Gulf as a safe, engaging and responsible way to explore the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park.
“People protect what they understand,” said Dr. Kolb.
“The best tourism experiences do not just entertain. They create a connection between people and nature and inspire visitors to become advocates for conservation.”
The Hauraki Gulf is one of New Zealand’s most important coastal environments, home to island sanctuaries, seabirds, marine life and sensitive coastal habitats. For many visitors, exploring these places has traditionally required ferries or larger charter boats.
Hibiscus JetSki Hire & Tours offers a more personal and immersive way to experience all the Hauraki Gulf has on offer. Rather than observing the coastline from a distance, riders travel close to the water, feeling the scale of the islands, bays and open channels while gaining a stronger appreciation of the marine environment around them. They can savour the opportunity to observe the marine wildlife, including little blue penguins and sometimes dolphins.
The company’s focus is on responsible adventure with clear safety briefings, local guidance, respectful distances from wildlife, awareness of sensitive coastal areas and a strong emphasis on leaving the environment exactly as it was found.
“When you are closer to the water, you feel more connected to it,” said Dr. Kolb.
“Visitors see the coastline, islands, seabirds and marine life from a completely different perspective. That closeness creates respect.”
While many customers choose short jet ski hire outings around Manly, Stanmore Bay and the Whangaparāoa coastline, the company’s self-led island safaris with guidance are where its eco-tourism model really comes to life.
Riders can explore iconic Hauraki Gulf destinations including Tiritiri Matangi Island, Kawau Island, Motuora Island, Moturekareka and Motuketekete.
Tiritiri Matangi Island, one of New Zealand’s best-known wildlife sanctuaries, offers a powerful conservation story. While landing access is subject to strict rules and biosecurity requirements, the surrounding waters provide opportunities to experience the island’s coastline, wildlife and restoration story from the sea.
Kawau Island offers historic coastal scenery and sheltered bays, while Motuora and the surrounding island routes give visitors a sense of true marine adventure close to Auckland.
Hibiscus JetSki Hire & Tours also offers unique oyster farm experiences, helping visitors learn about sustainable aquaculture, local Kiwi-owned and operated food production and the connection between healthy marine environments and coastal communities.
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