Shelly Bay at Mayor Island is a sheltered reef site located within the Tauranga Harbour entrance. Featuring a crushed shell shoreline, the site offers shore access into calm waters with mild currents. It is suitable for beginners and those looking for a relaxed dive or snorkel experience. Water temperatures fluctuate between 15C and 22C throughout the year. Parking facilities are available for visitors. Divers and snorkellers should be aware of sharp coral present at the site.

Karewa, located off Mayor Island, offers a combination of reef and wreck diving. The site features depths ranging from 10 to 22 metres, with an average depth of 15 metres, making it suitable for beginner divers. Access is by boat only, situated 6000 metres from the shore. Divers can expect visibility between 5 and 10 metres. While currents are generally mild, they can strengthen without warning, and surf conditions at the entry point may vary. Divers should confirm local conditions with a charter operator before departure. The site is accessible year-round, with water temperatures fluctuating between 15C and 22C throughout the year.

Moturiki Island is a shore-accessible reef site located off the main beach of Mount Maunganui. The topography features rocky shores and remnants of an old aquarium wall, which now functions as an artificial reef structure. Depths start at 1 metre, making the site suitable for beginners. Conditions are variable, with mild currents and potential for surf and surge. Divers and snorkellers should remain aware of boat traffic in the area. Parking is available for visitors. The water temperature ranges from 15C to 22C throughout the year.

Rabbit Island, situated 500 metres from the shore of Mayor Island, features a diverse underwater landscape composed of natural reef structures and artificial reef elements. The northern side of the island is defined by fringing rock outcrops. This site is suited for advanced divers, as it is subject to strong currents and potential surf conditions. Depths at the site range from 5 to 30 metres. Access is available via both shore and boat entry. With water temperatures fluctuating between 15C and 21C, the site is also suitable for snorkelling, holding a rating of 4 out of 5.

Orongatea Bay at Mayor Island is a reef site characterised by a shallow rock platform featuring underwater hot springs that release bubbles. This marine location offers depths ranging from 2 to 50 metres, with an average depth of 8 metres. Access is by boat only, as the site is located 35 kilometres from the shore. Conditions are variable, with visibility typically between 11 and 24 metres and water temperatures ranging from 15 to 20C. Divers and snorkellers should be aware of strong currents, surf, and boat traffic. The site is suitable for beginners, though the depth and current require careful monitoring.

Turanganui Point at Mayor Island features a reef and pinnacle structure with significant vertical relief. The site drops from 20 metres to depths of 80 metres, with an average depth of 30 metres. Divers experience moderate currents and surge, requiring comfort in moving water. Visibility typically ranges from 10 to 30 metres. Water temperatures fluctuate between 14C and 18C, necessitating appropriate thermal protection. Access is exclusively by boat, and divers must remain vigilant for boat traffic during surface intervals and ascents. Guided tours and boat charters are available to assist with navigating local conditions and swell.

Snapper Rock at Mayor Island features dramatic lava columns and kelp forests. Located within the northern marine reserve, this site offers depths ranging from 5 to 50 metres. Access is by boat only, as the site is situated 35 kilometres from the shore. Conditions are variable, with moderate currents and potential surge. Due to the depth and current, this site is suited for advanced snorkellers. Water temperatures fluctuate between 15 and 22 degrees Celsius, though they may drop to 14 degrees. Divers and snorkellers should remain aware of boat traffic in the area.

Okaparu Reef is a fully submerged rocky garden spanning five acres off Mayor Island. The site features an upper surface at a depth of 5 metres, with the reef extending down to 40 metres. Due to the presence of moderate currents, surge, and significant depth, this location is suited for advanced snorkelers. Access to the reef is by boat only. Water temperatures at the site fluctuate between 15C and 22C throughout the year. Snorkelers should be aware of hazards including the deep water, sharp coral, and strong currents present in the area.