It seems there has been a lot of change. I will return to NZ after 12 years in Europe and to show my little kids what NZ is all about. We planned to rent a house near the karikari peninsula and show them the beautiful area. However I just found out that the rahui in Maitai Bay will be effective until 2025. Further a lot of tracks and roads are blocked/closed. So are there still good spots in the area we can reach for a shore dive. Unfortunately we don´t have a boat, but I promised my little kids that the will see some good fish and some crays. I would really appreciate it if you could point me in the right directions. My intention is not to shoot everything I see, but to teach my children the love for the ocean, kai moana and the importance to look after this wonderfull place.  

yeah I can´t wait to be honest. It has been way too long. Goat island is a good idea, Thanks! I just thought on getting a cheap stand up paddle board on trademe. So the kids have fun in the water and something to rest on and I can paddle along the coast and reach more good looking area. And probably afterwards give it away to some local kid who can't afford one.