Matauri Bay - Bay of Islands

Picadilly sits in the calm lagoon just off Bayahibe, a quick boat ride from shore. It’s a solid spot for newer divers, or anyone looking for a relaxed bottom time without strong currents. The reef here, topping out around 20 metres, is home to a good mix of Caribbean regulars. We often spot French grunts huddled under ledges, groups of doctorfish grazing, and sometimes a shy hogfish or a spotted moray peeking out. The big barrel sponges are always worth a close look; we've even seen king crabs tucked inside on a lucky day. Visibility averages around 14 metres, which is perfectly fine for enjoying the smaller reef fish like yellowhead jawfish in the sand patches.

Location
Bay of Islands, New Zealand, Australasia
Coordinates
-35.026700, 173.914700
Type
reef

Marine Protected Area: Totara North

Nearby Dive Sites in Bay of Islands

Nearest Dive Centres to Matauri Bay

Marine Life in Bay of Islands

Home to 172 recorded species including 100 reef fish, 22 sharks & rays, 11 whales & dolphins, 10 other, 6 crabs & lobsters, 4 seagrass & algae.

Notable Species

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical depth range for diving at Matauri Bay, including the Rainbow Warrior wreck and surrounding reefs?
At Matauri Bay, divers can expect a maximum depth of 11m, with the sloping stony beach descending to 12m. Information regarding the typical depth range for the Rainbow Warrior wreck and surrounding reefs is not available in the provided data.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see when exploring Matauri Bay and the Cavalli Islands dive sites?
When exploring Matauri Bay, divers will discover dynamic reef structures, along with reef, sandy, and kelp patches. The bay is teeming with life, including schooling Snapper, Blue Maomao, kingfish chasing Koheru, and common sightings of Squid, especially at night. Information about marine life and features around the Cavalli Islands is not provided in the current data. For more on species, visit our wildlife database.
How challenging is diving at Matauri Bay, especially for the Rainbow Warrior wreck, and what level of diving experience is recommended?
Diving at Matauri Bay is considered an intermediate difficulty level, making it suitable for divers with some experience. Details regarding the specific challenge level or recommended experience for diving the Rainbow Warrior wreck are not available in the provided context.
What are the best times of year to dive Matauri Bay for optimal water conditions, visibility, and marine life sightings?
The provided data does not specify the best times of year for optimal water conditions, visibility, or marine life sightings at Matauri Bay. For general guidance on seasonal diving, please refer to our When to Dive resource.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive the Rainbow Warrior wreck and other dive sites accessible from Matauri Bay?
The provided information does not specify the scuba diving certifications required for Matauri Bay or any other dive sites, including the Rainbow Warrior wreck. Divers should always check with local dive operators for specific certification requirements.
What are the typical water temperatures, visibility, and current conditions divers might encounter when diving in Matauri Bay and around the Cavalli Islands?
Divers at Matauri Bay can expect an average visibility of 9m. However, information regarding typical water temperatures and current conditions for Matauri Bay, or any conditions around the Cavalli Islands, is not available in the provided data.