Marine Reserves • Offshore Islands • Snorkel Trails
Sheltered, life-rich bays for beginners and dramatic offshore pinnacles for advanced divers — all within reach of Hahei, Whitianga and Tairua.
The Coromandel Peninsula’s volcanic cliffs, islands and protected coves create a compact range of dive and snorkel options. Close to shore you’ll find kelp forests, boulder gardens and schools of reef fish; offshore the Aldermen and Mercury Islands add caves, arches and pinnacles with blue-water encounters. Conditions shift with weather and tides — local skippers and instructors help pick the right site for your day.
From Hahei’s marine reserve to outer islands, here’s where to get underwater — with notes on access, depth and what you’ll likely see.
Hahei • Shore/boat access
Iconic arch topside, clear turquoise water below. Explore rock formations, kelp forests and schooling fish along the headlands. Best in settled weather with low swell.
Hahei • Shore entry
Marked by interpretive buoys, this calm cove is tailor-made for beginners and families. Expect spotties, parore, goatfish and colourful seaweeds in shallow water.
Hahei • Shore/boat
True to the name, you’ll often see short-tailed stingrays cruising calmly. A gentle, shallow snorkel in settled seas — keep respectful distance and avoid sudden movements.
Offshore (ex Tairua/Whitianga) • Boat only
Often called one of NZ’s best dive areas: pinnacles, caves, arches and fishy walls. Look for kingfish, crayfish, schooling mackerel and the occasional dolphin or orca.
Offshore (ex Whitianga) • Boat only
Varied reefs, drop-offs and caves across the island group. Abundant fish life, nudibranchs and kelp forests; surge and current possible on exposed sides.
Hahei • Shore/boat
Easy access with plenty to see: boulder gardens, urchin barrens and sand channels frequented by goatfish and snapper.
| Site | Skill | Depth (typical) | Access | Highlights | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cathedral Cove | Snorkel / Beg–Int | 5–12 m | Shore/boat | Kelp, schooling fish, arches nearby | Best in low swell |
| Gemstone Bay | Snorkel / Beginner | 2–6 m | Shore | Snorkel trail buoys | Family friendly |
| Stingray Bay | Snorkel / Beginner | 1–6 m | Shore/boat | Stingray encounters | Keep respectful distance |
| Aldermen Islands | Int–Adv | 10–30 m+ | Boat | Pinnacles, caves, pelagics | Exposed; currents/surge |
| Mercury Islands | Int–Adv | 8–25 m+ | Boat | Reefs, drop-offs, caves | Variable viz, swell-dependent |
PADI centres and charter boats match sites to the day’s conditions and your experience. Book ahead in summer.
PADI centre running trips inside the marine reserve. Discover Scuba for beginners, guided snorkel tours, and advanced courses for certified divers.
PADI centre with boats to Mercury and Aldermen Islands plus Cathedral Cove. Courses from beginner to Instructor; full retail and hire gear.
Local skippers run seasonal trips to reef walls, arches and pinnacles. Many accept snorkelers. Bring cert card; guides will check experience for advanced sites.
Snorkeling requires no cert. For scuba, Open Water unlocks most inshore sites; Advanced Open Water recommended for islands and deeper walls.
Yes — tanks, regs, BCDs, exposure suits and weights are available from PADI centres. Bring your own mask if you’re picky about fit.
Operators follow PADI guidelines; medical questionnaire may be required. Kids can snorkel with supervision; minimum ages apply for scuba courses.
Many charters welcome snorkelers and ride-alongs, especially on fine days. Ask when booking.
Information above summarises your brief; always reconfirm tides, access, restrictions and conditions with operators before departure.
Tell us your cert level, gear needs and dates. We’ll point you to the best reserve, reef or island for the forecast.
