Rainbow Warrior - Bay of Islands

The SS Maori is one of our favourite dives in False Bay, especially on a calm day. We love the way the wreck lies, broken but still substantial, with its stern sitting around 17m and the bows much shallower. It’s a great site for poking around, dropping down to the prop and rudder, then working your way up into the holds where light filters through the gaps. You’ll find crayfish tucked into every crevice, little shy sharks hiding under ledges, and often massive schools of hottentot and other reef fish swirling around the superstructure. Visibility averages 9m, so it’s not always gin-clear, but we think that adds to the atmospheric vibe of an old cargo ship swallowed by the sea. Just be mindful of the currents, which can pick up, especially further out on the deeper sections.

Location
Bay of Islands, New Zealand, Australasia
Coordinates
-34.974800, 173.935000
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Totara North

Nearby Dive Sites in Bay of Islands

Nearest Dive Centres to Rainbow Warrior

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

How deep is the Rainbow Warrior dive site and what are the depths of its key features?
The Rainbow Warrior wreck rests on the sand at a depth of 26 meters. The maximum depth reached on the wreck structure itself is 25 meters, making this former Greenpeace flagship a stunning artificial reef in the Cavalli Islands.
What marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see on the Rainbow Warrior wreck?
Divers exploring the Rainbow Warrior can expect to encounter a vibrant array of marine life, as the wreck functions as a stunning artificial reef. You might spot colourful jewel anemones, cleaner wrasse, two spotted demoiselles, snapper, leather jackets, Jason Nudibranchs, Crayfish, and pigfish. For more information on these species, visit our wildlife database.
What is the difficulty level for diving the Rainbow Warrior, and is wreck penetration allowed?
Diving the Rainbow Warrior is rated as an intermediate difficulty dive. While the site offers a rewarding experience for divers with some experience, specific information regarding wreck penetration allowance is not provided in the available data.
What is the best time of year to dive the Rainbow Warrior for optimal visibility and conditions?
The Rainbow Warrior dive site typically offers an average visibility of 15 meters. However, specific information regarding the best time of year for optimal conditions is not available in the provided data. We recommend checking our When to Dive section for general guidance on diving seasons in New Zealand.
What diving certifications are required or recommended to dive the Rainbow Warrior wreck?
Given that the Rainbow Warrior is an intermediate difficulty wreck dive, it is generally recommended that divers hold at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent. While specific certification requirements are not detailed in the provided data, local dive operators in the Bay of Islands can provide the most precise and up-to-date information.
What are the typical water conditions, including currents and visibility, at the Rainbow Warrior dive site?
At the Rainbow Warrior dive site, divers can typically expect an average visibility of 15 meters. However, specific details regarding typical water currents or temperatures are not included in the available data. It's always advisable to consult with local dive centers for current conditions before your dive.