

Best for intermediate divers, 12-38m, shore & boat entry, mild current.
Deep Water Cove, located at the Hole in the Rock in the Bay of Islands, is a diverse marine site featuring a reef, wreck, artificial reef, and cave systems. The topography is defined by a massive underwater archway. Depths range from 12 to 38 metres, with visibility varying between 8 and 30 metres. The site experiences mild currents and is suitable for intermediate divers. Access is available via both shore and boat entries. Hazards include boat traffic, potential for decompression, deep water, entanglement, overhead environments, and surge. Typical dives last approximately 35 minutes, and the site is highly rated for snorkelling.
-35.19150, 174.30480
If staying in or near Paihia, operators can pick you up directly from the Paihia wharf by boat.
Boat access from Paihia or Waipapa.
Recorded at this site
Depth
12-38m
Visibility
8-30m
Skill Level
Intermediate
Entry
Shore & Boat
Water Temp
16-21°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
35 min
Best Time
Jan, Feb, Mar, Jun, Jul, Aug, Dec
The site depths range from 12 to 38 metres.
No, the site is rated for intermediate skill levels due to the depth and overhead environments.
Yes, Deep Water Cove is highly rated for snorkelling.
Access to the site is available by both shore and boat.
Divers and snorkellers should be aware of boat traffic, decompression requirements, deep water, entanglement risks, overhead environments, and surge.
Diving at Deep Water Cove in Paihia requires the following certifications: Open Water, Advanced. Always dive within your training limits.
A 7mm wetsuit or semi-dry is recommended for diving at Deep Water Cove in Paihia. Water temperatures range from 16°C to 21°C.
The best months to visit Deep Water Cove in Paihia are January, February, March, June, July, August, and December. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Deep Water Cove in Paihia typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Deep Water Cove in Paihia typically ranges from 8 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.