Motiti Island - Taioma Wreck - Goat Island & Hauraki Gulf

The Taioma wreck, off Motiti Island, is a proper cracker for anyone who appreciates a bit of history with their dive. This old dredge sank back in '81, and she's settled nicely, creating a fantastic artificial reef. We love how the wreck’s various sections – the crane arm, the engine room, the hull plates – are now completely draped in jewel anemones and sponges. It’s a riot of colour, like someone threw paint at a metal skeleton. You'll spend most of your time exploring the nooks and crannies, peering into dark openings where crays and moray eels often lurk. There are usually schools of demoiselles and red moki flitting about the superstructure, and if you’re patient, you might spot a kingfish cruising by. Entry and exit can be a bit choppy depending on the swell, so pick your day carefully. We'd suggest going at slack tide for the best visibility and easiest navigation around the wreck’s perimeter. It’s a site that rewards a slow, methodical approach, giving you time to appreciate both the wreck itself and the life it now supports.

Location
Goat Island & Hauraki Gulf, New Zealand, Australasia
Coordinates
-37.623000, 176.423610
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Egg Island Crown Land

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 Motiti Island - Taioma Wreck

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 Motiti Island - Taioma Wreck

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