The Avenues - Bay of Islands

Windmill Shallows has a character all its own, a lovely stretch of reef we often find ourselves heading back to. The reef drops from about 17 meters, then angles down gently to a maximum of 27 meters. You’re swimming through a landscape of sea plume forests, so dense in places it feels like flying over a purple-hued meadow. We love how the hard coral sections are blanketed in gorgonians, creating these textured gardens. Keep an eye on those sandy patches and underhangs; they’re often home to lobsters tucked away. Visibility here averages around 14 meters, which is decent enough to appreciate the details. We’ve seen plenty of Spotted Trunkfish picking their way across the reef, and the Simnias and Whip Coral Shrimps are a real find if you’re patient enough to spot them. On the deeper edges, we sometimes encounter schooling jacks or mackerel, especially if there’s a bit of current to liven things up. It’s a site that rewards a slow pace, perfect for divers who enjoy taking their time to observe the smaller residents and appreciate a beautiful coral scape.

Location

Bay of Islands, New Zealand, Australasia

Coordinates

-35.318200, 174.330200

Type

reef

Marine Protected Area: Tamateatai Point