Elsdon Pipe in Wellington is a rugged site featuring deep channels and swim-throughs. The topography includes both natural reef and artificial structures. Divers access the water via a channel through the rocks located just south of the old sewage pipe. Conditions are variable, with depths ranging from 5 to 16 metres and an average depth of 12 metres. The site is subject to moderate currents, surge, and surf, with visibility typically between 6 and 10 metres. Due to these environmental factors, this site is suited for advanced divers. Parking is available for those accessing the site from the shore.

Princess Bay in Wellington is a shore-accessible reef site suitable for beginners. Divers and snorkellers can enter from the beach, following rocky reefs through weed beds to reach sandy areas. The site ranges from 8 to 18 metres in depth, with an average of 9 metres. Conditions include mild currents and visibility that can vary, with surf present as a potential hazard. Facilities at the site include parking, toilets, showers, and changing rooms. The location is also suitable for night diving.

Scorching Bay in Wellington offers a sheltered shore entry, making it a reliable site for diving when conditions elsewhere are challenging. The site features a reef and kelp forest environment with depths ranging from 1 to 8 metres, averaging 5 metres. It is well-suited for beginners and provides a calm setting for photography. Divers should remain aware of boat traffic in the area. Facilities at the site include parking, toilets, showers, changing rooms, and a cafe. Typical dives last around 45 minutes, and the site is also suitable for night diving.

Shelly Bay in Wellington is a shore-accessible reef site suitable for beginners. Divers and snorkellers can expect an average depth of 8 metres with mild currents. Visibility varies significantly, ranging from 1 to 10 metres. The site features a variety of marine life, including common sightings of pot-bellied seahorses, reef squid, and eleven-armed sea stars. Other species recorded here include conger eels, wrasses, gurnard, pink snapper, and various crabs, snails, and tube worms. Long-nosed fur seals are occasionally encountered. The site is suitable for night diving, with typical dives lasting around 40 minutes. Facilities include nearby parking and a cafe. Be aware of potential entanglement hazards and fluctuating visibility.

Mahanga Bay in Wellington is a shore-entry dive site featuring the remains of an old scientific research station, including a wharf and a submerged car. The site offers a varied underwater landscape of reef, wreck, and artificial structures. Divers can explore depths ranging from 5 to 14 metres, with an average depth of 10 metres. Conditions are generally mild, though visibility fluctuates between 3 and 10 metres. The site is suitable for beginners and supports night diving, with typical dives lasting around 45 minutes. Facilities at the location include parking and toilets. Divers should be aware of potential entanglement hazards and the variable visibility.

The HMNZS Wellington is a decommissioned New Zealand Navy frigate resting upright on the seabed in the Outer Harbour of Wellington. Sunk as an artificial reef, the wreck sits at depths ranging from 6 to 22 metres. The upper structure is suitable for open water divers, while deeper sections are better suited for those with advanced or wreck certifications. Visibility typically ranges from 5 to 10 metres, so a torch is recommended for exploring interior passages. Access is by boat only, located 400 metres from shore. Currents are generally mild, though conditions can shift, and water temperatures range from 12 to 16 degrees Celsius.

The F69 Wreck, formerly the HMNZS Wellington, is a Leander-class frigate scuttled in 2005 to serve as an artificial reef. Located 400 metres from shore, the site features the wreckage split into two main sections, including the bow with its intact forward guns and anchors. Depths range from 6 to 22 metres, with an average of 21 metres. Access is by boat only. Conditions are variable, with visibility ranging from 2 to 12 metres and water temperatures between 12 and 16C. The site is suitable for beginners, though a guide is recommended for those with limited experience. Hazards include deep sections, entanglement risks, low visibility, overhead environments, and strong currents.

Located within the Taputeranga Marine Reserve, the Island Bay Snorkel Trail offers a diverse marine environment featuring reef structures and kelp forests. The site is accessible from the shore and reaches depths between 5 and 15 metres. Divers and snorkellers should be prepared for cold water temperatures, which range from 12 to 17 degrees Celsius throughout the year. Conditions include moderate currents and visibility typically between 5 and 10 metres. The area is suitable for beginners, though visitors should remain aware of potential hazards such as surge, surf, and strong currents. Facilities including parking, toilets, and equipment rental are available nearby in Wellington.