reef

Log This Dive

OHINAU ISLAND

Ohinau Island is a bit of a local secret, tucked away in the Mercury Island group. We’ve had some cracking dives here, particularly around the southern tip, but you do need to be mindful of the currents – they can really pick up in the mid-water, giving you a proper workout. Visibility averages around 9 metres, which for this part of New Zealand, is pretty decent. What we love about Ohinau is the sheer amount of fish. You’ll find schools of New Zealand demoiselles darting amongst the kelp, and we’ve often seen big greenbone and green wrasse cruising the reef. Keep an eye out for southern reef squid; they’re often hanging around the rocky outcrops, flashing their colours. The max depth is around 12 metres, so it’s a brilliant spot for newer divers, or for anyone wanting a relaxed second dive. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a rig or a New Zealand draughtboard shark tucked under a ledge. We always suggest dropping in early to beat any boat traffic and get the best of the light filtering through the kelp.