cave

Log This Dive

Aldermens- Bishops Hat

Bishops Hat, out in the Aldermens, is a fantastic spot we always try to hit when the weather cooperates. It’s exposed to those easterlies and south-easterlies, so pick your day carefully, but when it’s good, it’s *really* good. We love dropping in here, particularly for the cave. It’s not a deep dive, peaking around 17 metres, but the way the light filters in through the entrance is just captivating. Inside the cave itself, we’ve often seen big Rig sheltering, and the walls are plastered with these colourful bristleworms that really catch your eye. Our favourite part has to be the outside wall though, where the kelp gives way to deeper water. This is where you might catch a flash of California Yellowtail or even a cruising Blue Shark if you’re lucky. We always keep an eye out for the cheeky New Zealand Draughtboard Sharks tucked into crevices. Visibility averages around 21 metres, which for New Zealand, feels like a gift. If you’re into a gentle drift, exploring some interesting rock formations, and don’t mind a bit of a boat ride, Bishops Hat is a winner. It’s a great dive for anyone comfortable with a bit of current and keen to see what the Hauraki Gulf really has to offer beyond the usual spots.