New Zealand’s North Island Has Its Own “Maldives” — And It’s FREE!

Who needs the Maldives when the North Island has Kai Iwi Lakes ? This hidden gem is a total game-changer—crystal-clear waters, dreamy vibes, and zero entry fees. You won’t believe it’s right here in New Zealand! 😍 📍 How to Get There It’s about a 1-hour drive from Whangarei—worth every minute of the road trip! As soon as you pull up, you’ll see why people call it “Little Maldives” 🛣️. The water here is even clearer than what I saw in Fiji—photos don’t do it justice at all. You have to see that shimmering, glass-like blue in person to truly believe it! ✨ 💎 Why It’s a Must-Visit - “Glass Sea” & “Jelly Sea” Vibes: The lake water is so transparent, you can see straight to the sandy bottom—like floating in a giant blue jelly! 🌊 Every angle looks like a postcard, whether you’re swimming, snorkeling, or just sitting on the shore. - Totally Free: No entrance fees, no hidden costs—pack a picnic, grab your swimsuit, and you’re all set for a day of tropical-style fun (without the tropical price tag!). 🧺 ⚠️ Super Important Safety Tip The lake has super obvious drop-offs (sudden steep changes in water depth). One second you might be in shallow water, the next it’s deep—so be extra careful, especially if you’re with kids or not a strong swimmer! Stay alert, and stick to areas where you can see the bottom if you’re wading. 🚫 If you’re in Auckland or the North Island and craving that “tropical getaway” feel without hopping on a plane, Kai Iwi Lakes is the spot. It’s quiet, beautiful, and feels like a secret paradise—don’t miss it! 🌞 #GlassSea #NewZealand #KaiIwiLakes #JellySea #MaldivesVibes #Fiji #NewZealandTravel #NewZealandHiddenGems #AucklandDayTrips #AucklandSurroundings