KORAPUKI - Goat Island & Hauraki Gulf

Motu Nuhi-Nuhi, affectionately known as ‘the Aquarium,’ sits snugly in the Rangiroa lagoon, a short boat ride from Tiputa Pass. We love it for its easy-going vibe and sheltered conditions, making it perfect for a relaxed dive, especially if you’re getting back into things or just want a chill afternoon. The reef here is shallow, topping out around 14 metres, and it’s always protected from any strong currents. Drop in and you’re immediately enveloped in a vibrant coral garden. We’ve drifted over sandy patches dotted with coral bommies – often called ‘potatoes’ here – absolutely teeming with smaller lagoon fish. Look out for the flash of Pinktail triggerfish, the bustling Six-line wrasse, and the occasional Golden trevally cruising by. The visibility averages a comfortable 17 metres, giving you plenty of light to spot creatures like the tiny Nocturn Goby peeking from its hidey-hole or a sleepy Bottleneck Sea Cucumber resting on the sand. It’s a gentle dive, letting you linger and really soak in the details. This site is exactly what you need for a no-stress immersion, ideal for beginners, photographers taking their time, or anyone wanting a serene dive away from the stronger currents of the passes.

Location
Goat Island & Hauraki Gulf, New Zealand, Australasia
Coordinates
-36.658200, 175.849100
Type
reef

Marine Protected Area: Rabbit Island

Best Time to Dive in Goat Island & Hauraki Gulf

The warmest water temperatures in Goat Island & Hauraki Gulf occur in February, averaging 22.4°C. The coolest conditions are in August at 14.1°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 21.4°C
  • February: 22.4°C
  • March: 21.8°C
  • April: 19.8°C
  • May: 17.4°C
  • June: 15.3°C
  • July: 14.1°C
  • August: 14.1°C
  • September: 14.7°C
  • October: 16.3°C
  • November: 18.5°C
  • December: 20.3°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Goat Island & Hauraki Gulf

Nearest Dive Centres to KORAPUKI

Marine Life in Goat Island & Hauraki Gulf

Home to 77 recorded species including 43 reef fish, 11 sharks & rays, 3 whales & dolphins, 3 crabs & lobsters, 3 other, 3 sea snails & nudibranchs.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for KORAPUKI

Based on average water temperature of 18.0°C, currents 2 cm/s.

  • Wetsuit (3-5mm) - comfortable for 18°C water
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories