3 ways - Bay of Islands

Three Ways, tucked into the Bay of Islands, is one of those sites that just feels like home. We’ve probably spent more bottom time here than anywhere else in Northland, and for good reason. It’s an archway system cutting right through Te Anaputa Island, so you get this fantastic play of light and shadow, especially when the sun hits it just right in the late morning. The site is a network of swim-throughs and small caves, perfect for exploring without needing to be a tech diver. Max depth hits around 15 metres, so it’s forgiving for newer divers but still offers plenty to see for the more experienced. Keep an eye out for Bulldog Stargazers buried in the sand patches just inside the arches – they’re masters of camouflage. We’ve also had some cracking encounters with larger stingrays here, especially in the warmer months when they seem to cruise through the channels. Look up, and you’ll often see schools of demoiselles and goatfish darting around. It’s a great spot for an easy, leisurely dive, suited to anyone who loves a bit of cave exploration without the serious commitment.

Location

Bay of Islands, New Zealand, Australasia

Coordinates

-35.000500, 173.962400

Type

reef

Marine Protected Area: Motutapu Island