Piercys’ Backside - Bay of Islands

Secret Wonderland lives up to the name, feeling like a quiet discovery rather than a major attraction. It’s a good wall dive, dropping to about 25m, with plenty of overhangs that create these lovely shadowed spots. We often find yellow-tailed fusiliers hanging out here, sometimes so thick they almost block the light. Keep an eye out for fire gobies darting about the coral, and we’ve seen some curious batfish come right up to the camera. It’s a solid pick for divers who appreciate a relaxed pace and aren’t chasing big pelagics, though the sheer quantity of cardinals and pajama cardinals is always a treat. Visibility usually sits around 25m, making for easy viewing.

Location
Bay of Islands, New Zealand, Australasia
Coordinates
-35.163100, 174.339500
Type
wall

Marine Protected Area: Oke Bay

Nearby Dive Sites in Bay of Islands

Nearest Dive Centres to Piercys’ Backside

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