Whites Bay in Wellington, New Zealand, is a shore-entry reef site featuring sandy beach access, extensive rock pools, and submerged ledges. The site is suitable for beginners, with depths ranging from 1 to 8 metres and an average depth of 5 metres. Snorkellers should be aware of variable conditions, including surf, surge, and rip currents. The area is equipped with parking, toilets, showers, and a rinse station. Water temperatures fluctuate between 12C and 17C throughout the year. This site provides a distinct coastal environment compared to the nearby Sounds, characterised by its exposed, surge-tolerant topography.

Double Cove is a sheltered reef site in Wellington, New Zealand, functioning as a no-take zone. The site is suitable for beginners, offering depths between 5 and 18 metres with an average of 12 metres. Divers and snorkellers can access the water from either the shore or a boat. Conditions are generally calm with mild currents, though visibility is variable, ranging from 1 to 8 metres. Water temperatures fluctuate between 12C and 16C throughout the year. A typical dive at this location lasts approximately 45 minutes. The site is well-regarded for snorkelling, holding a rating of 4 out of 5.

The Vara Wreck is a shallow marine dive site located in Wellington, New Zealand. Resting at an average depth of 5 metres, this wreck is accessible only by boat. Due to the shallow nature of the site and the conditions, it is suitable for beginner divers. Divers should be aware of the presence of stonefish in the area. Water temperatures at the site fluctuate throughout the year, ranging from 12C in the winter months to 17C in February. As a wreck site, it offers a specific historical structure to explore within the local marine environment.

Jurassic Park is a reef site located in Wellington, New Zealand, accessible only by boat. The site features north-facing reefs that offer visibility ranging from 5 to 20 metres. Divers and snorkellers should be prepared for strong currents in this area. Depths at the site typically range between 3 and 15 metres, with an average depth of 12 metres. Due to the nature of the underwater environment, divers should be aware of potential hazards including entanglement and sharp coral. The site is suitable for intermediate divers and is highly rated for snorkelling.

Lochmara Bay in Wellington features a combination of natural reef and artificial reef structures, including a reef restoration project and an underwater observatory. This site is well-suited for beginners, with depths ranging from 2 to 13 metres and an average depth of 7 metres. Snorkellers can explore shallow sandy flats and the artificial structures. Conditions are generally mild, though visitors should remain aware of boat traffic and potential entanglement hazards. Facilities available at the site include a cafe, showers, toilets, and parking, with guided tours also offered. Species recorded around this area include smooth rays, eagle rays, long-nosed fur seals, wrasses, blue cod, and various invertebrates such as sea stars and sea cucumbers.

Motuara Island features a large rocky reef and kelp forest system extending north from the island tip. Located at the entrance of the Queen Charlotte Sound, the site is subject to variable conditions and surge. Access is by boat only. Water temperatures range from 13C to 17C throughout the year, with the warmest conditions occurring between January and March. Due to the potential for surge and the nature of the terrain, this site is best suited for advanced divers. Snorkellers may also enjoy the area, which holds a rating of 4 out of 5 for surface activities.

Blue Cod Point in Wellington, New Zealand, is a sheltered shallow cove featuring a rocky wall. This site is suitable for beginners and offers an average depth of 9 metres, with a range between 8 and 10 metres. Access to the site is by boat only. Divers can expect mild currents during a typical 20-minute dive. The site is also well-regarded for snorkelling, holding a rating of 4 out of 5. Water temperatures fluctuate between 13C and 17C throughout the year. Be aware of boat traffic in the area and sharp coral structures along the reef and wall.

The Mikhail Lermontov is a large cruise ship wreck located in a sheltered bay in New Zealand. Sunk in 1986, the vessel lies at depths ranging from 12 to 38 metres, with an average depth of 20 metres. Access is by boat only, and the site features mild currents. Visibility typically fluctuates between 5 and 15 metres. Water temperatures range from 12C to 16C throughout the year, making drysuits recommended for comfort. The wreck presents hazards including deep sections, potential for entanglement, and overhead environments. Guided tours, air fills, and gear storage facilities are available for visiting divers.