Activities · Destination Guide
Wrecks, kelp forests, and island cruising in New Zealand's subtropical Far North
Updated Feb 13, 2026 • 19 sources
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Bay of Islands delivers classic Northland diving: boat-access reef structure, kelp forests, arches and caves, plus iconic wreck options. Most divers base in Paihia or Russell, then day-boat to outer islands and headlands where the terrain gets dramatic. Your headline day is usually the ex-HMNZS Canterbury, a purpose-sunk frigate that now acts as an artificial reef. For a second wreck story, many itineraries add the Rainbow Warrior in the Cavalli Islands (a drive north plus a short charter).
Blue Maomao Arch (Bay of Islands)
A photogenic arch where schooling fish often gather.
Outerisland rock and reef structure that can attract current and schooling fish.
Cape Brett area diving with more exposed structure and the chance of bigger schools.
A reef site known for crevices and overhangs that shelter fish.
A boulderfield style reef dive that suits a broad range of divers.
New Zealand Navy frigate scuttled as an artificial reef in Deep Water Cove.
A highenergy cavestyle site near the Canterbury area.
Two small islands with varied reef lines and fun navigation along boulders and kelp.
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