We sailed to this island on the advice of a kind retired NZ captain we met many months ago in Auckland. He told us to absolutely visit Rakitu (Arid Island) so here we are. He gave us the location of a special diving spot he would take his charter couples to visit on the outside of the island if conditions were settled.

Normally, the waters here are rough as it faces the open ocean, but we were fortunate to have light conditions, as we were protected to the lee of the island

We found the cove he mentioned, which is simply majestic. It is surrounded by high cliffs and deep water drop offs as typical all around the island. But it offers a hidden, short cove with a shallow ledge teeming with sealife. We experienced quite the NZ natural aquarium with schools of fish, kelp forests, crayfish (local lobster), tuna, parrotfish, kingfish, sharks, and much more...

It is a special place, seemingly undisturbed by time or visitors. To that kind captain who shared his special spot with us, thank you.

Reminds me of the message framed on the wall of my middle school guidance counselors office: "Kindness is contagious, pass it on!"