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northland
A
sub-tropical climate and superb coastal scenery makes Northland
rewarding for any traveller, especially divers.
World-class diving locations are found mainly on the east coast,
which has countless sheltered bays, golden sands and an aquatic
playground amongst the many reefs and offshore islands. Marine
reserves and artificial reefs (in the form of disused warships)
are a feature of this region and bottlenose dolphins, orcas and
other mammals are often seen.
Northland has excellent dive/sport shops located in Kaitaia,
Whatuwhiwhi (on the Karikari Peninsula), Coopers Beach, Kerikeri,
Paihia, Tutukaka, Whangarei and Mangawhai. They offer dive and
fishing gear sales, training schools, air fills, hire equipment
and servicing. Dive trips to the top spots on the east coast are
outlined below.
Karikari Peninsula
There is good boat diving from Matai Bay or Tokerau Beach. It is
a rocky seabed with many reefs notably Matai Bay Pinnacle, which
descends to 40 m attracting blue maomao, demoiselles and
kingfish.
Whangaroa Bay
There is boat access from Mahinepua Bay, Tauranga Bay, Whangaroa
and Taupo Bay with water clarity to 15m. Cone Rock, Stephenson
Island and Flat Island offer good snorkelling and diving with
many reef and pelagic fish, plus crayfish and shellfish.
Cavalli Islands
A great diving area 5 km off Matauri Bay. Abundant fish life on
Tokananohia Reef and Taheke Reef with drop-offs to 53m and a
reputation for sharks and barracuda. There is a superb artificial
reef dive on the Greenpeace Ship ‘Rainbow Warrior’ at
25m in 10m visibility. The ship is beautifully coated with jewel
anemones, sponges and nudibranchs and teems with schooling fish.
Don't miss it!
Bland Bay
This whole coastline is excellent snorkelling territory but
requires boat access. Danger Rock is a great scuba dive with
drop-offs to 37m and swirling schools of trevally, kahawai and
blue maomao.
Tutukaka Coast
There is prolific marine life here as well as two old warships as
artificial reefs. The hydrographic research ship Tui (25-32m) has
holes in each deck to allow access. The frigate Waikato (8-28m)
has gun turrets, an aircraft hanger and good entry and exit
points.
Hen & Chicken Islands
Coppermine Point and Lighthouse Point are prime kingfish areas in
summer and great diving and underwater photography can be had
year round.
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