

Best for intermediate divers, 6-20m, boat entry, moderate current.
Te Paepae o Aotea is a reef and pinnacle site located off White Island, New Zealand. The site features a vertical structure with depths ranging from 6 to 20 metres. Divers should expect moderate currents that can strengthen, making it suitable for intermediate skill levels. Visibility is highly variable, fluctuating between 6 and 40 metres. Boat access is required to reach this location, which sits 55 kilometres from shore. Water temperatures range from 16 to 22 degrees Celsius throughout the year. The habitat supports temperate reef communities typical of the North Island coastline. Divers must remain vigilant for boat traffic, particularly when surfacing near the pinnacle.
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The Department of Conservation advises only visiting in calm sea conditions, including boats longer than seven metres, due to the exposed location.
Accessible only by boat. There are charter boat services in the eastern Bay of Plenty.
Recorded at this site
Depth
6-20m
Visibility
6-40m
Skill Level
Intermediate
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
16-22°C
Current
Moderate
The site supports temperate reef communities typical of the North Island coastline, including various reef fish and invertebrates.
No, this site is rated for intermediate divers due to the presence of moderate currents and variable visibility.
The reef and pinnacle structure reaches depths between 6 and 20 metres.
Boat access is required to reach this site, which is located 55 kilometres from the shore.
Hazards include boat traffic, strong currents, surf, and potential for low visibility. Divers should maintain surface awareness at all times to avoid collisions.
A 7mm wetsuit or semi-dry is recommended for diving at Te Paepae o Aotea in Bay of Plenty. Water temperatures range from 16°C to 22°C.
Expect moderate currents at Te Paepae o Aotea in Bay of Plenty. Good buoyancy control and some drift diving experience is helpful.
Visibility at Te Paepae o Aotea in Bay of Plenty typically ranges from 6 metres to 40 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.