The Bay of Plenty, situated on the northern coast of New Zealand’s North Island, is home to spectacular beaches and the sunny seaside city of Tauranga. Being home to New Zealand’s only active underwater volcano, the landscape beneath the water’s surface features small caves, volcanic boulders, overhangs, and canyons. There are a couple of excellent wreck dives and the chance to explore a thriving marine reserve.Bay of Plenty diving is possible from dive centres and dive clubs located in Tauranga, where dive trips are usually offered on the weekend. The training component of dive courses is held in an indoor heated pool before heading out to brave the blue.
The Bay of Plenty has several wrecks including the MV Rena which lies just outside of Tauranga Harbour and The Taioma Wreck lying just off Motiti Island. Both sites have become thriving artificial reefs that are accessible only by advanced divers due to their depth and potential for strong currents. Rocky reefs which host a myriad of invertebrates and crustaceans can be explored at Rabbit Island while at Motiti Island the landscape features overhangs, canyons and volcanic boulders.
Scuba diving in the Bay of Plenty takes place year-round with the condition that you are donning a wetsuit. The summer begins in October and extends through to March, where the average water temperature is 22℃. July is the coldest month, with water temperature averaging 12℃, while March is the wettest. Visibility while diving the Bay of Plenty can stretch to a record of 40 metres.
Wildlife Sightings are Based on User Generated Content
