reef

Log This Dive

Matiatia Bay - Wharf

Okay, so Matiatia Bay Wharf isn't going to win any beauty contests. Let's get that straight. Average visibility sits around 6 metres, often less, and you're diving right under a busy ferry terminal. We’re talking sand, silt, and plenty of boat traffic. But for those with a certain appreciation for the industrial and the unusual, and crucially, permission from the harbourmaster, this spot has a strange appeal. You'll spend your time investigating the pier pylons, which host surprisingly resilient micro-life – tiny crabs, the occasional snail, and various sponges. Down on the silty bottom, we've spotted rig sharks cruising through, the odd sea potato, and once, a rather grumpy Asian paddle crab. It's not a reef dive, not by a long shot. Instead, it’s a dive for those who enjoy the challenge, the grit, and the unexpected encounters that come with a less-than-glamorous site. Think of it as urban exploration, but underwater. If you're into documenting, or just looking for something completely different, this is your spot. Just make sure you’ve sorted out that harbourmaster permission first, and keep a sharp eye out for ferry prop wash.