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Bowling Alley

Bowling Alley has this classic Bay of Islands feel to it, that rugged, slightly wild beauty. It’s not a deep dive, peaking around 15 metres, but we love how the light plays through the kelp. You’re weaving through these massive boulders, all carpeted in the stuff, and that’s where the real hunt begins. Look closely and you’ll find crayfish tucked into crevices, moray eels peering out. It’s a very fishy dive, as the local skippers say. We’ve seen huge schools of butterfly perch here, clouds of them, and plenty of those vibrant blue maomao zipping by. Keep an eye out for a Southern Eagle Ray gliding over the sand patches between the rocks, or even a rig shark tucked away. It's an ideal spot for newer divers, or anyone who just wants a relaxed, beautiful dive without the pressure of depth. Our favourite time to visit is mid-morning, just after the sun has properly risen but before the afternoon chop can sometimes pick up.