

Best for beginner divers, shore entry, mild current.
Cooks Cove is a sheltered reef inlet on the East Coast of New Zealand, accessible via a 2.5-hour return walk. This site is suitable for beginners, offering shallow and calm conditions for snorkelling and diving. Water temperatures range from 14C to 20C throughout the year. Divers and snorkellers should be aware of potential hazards, including surf and rip currents. The habitat supports a variety of temperate marine life, including reef fish and invertebrates typical of the region. Facilities at the trailhead include parking and toilets. The site provides a relaxed environment for those looking to explore the coastal reef system.
-38.38050, 178.33520
The cove is a sheltered inlet with the weather-beaten Mitre Rocks standing to the left of the entrance and Pourewa Island rising up on the right.
From Gisborne, take SH35 north for 52 km. Take the Wharf Road turnoff, 2 km south of Tolaga Bay township. A small car park is at the walkway entrance, with a larger overflow car park at the motor camp 200 m further.
Expected in this region. No sightings logged here yet.
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore
Water Temp
14-20°C
Current
Mild
Best Time
Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Nov, Dec
The site supports a range of temperate reef fish and invertebrates expected for this habitat in New Zealand.
Yes, Cooks Cove is considered suitable for beginners due to its sheltered and shallow nature.
Yes, Cooks Cove is suitable for snorkelling and holds a rating of 3/5 for the activity.
Entry to the water at Cooks Cove is from the shore.
Divers and snorkellers should be aware of surf and rip currents in the area.
A 7mm wetsuit or semi-dry is recommended for diving at Cooks Cove in Tolaga Bay. Water temperatures range from 14°C to 20°C.
The best months to visit Cooks Cove in Tolaga Bay are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, November, and December. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Cooks Cove in Tolaga Bay typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.