Rena (Wreck) - Goat Island & Hauraki Gulf

Stone Henge is a spot we keep coming back to when we’re in Taveuni. It’s a shallow site, only dropping to 18 metres, but it’s packed with stuff. We love the way the pinnacles create these little nooks and crannies to explore, almost like swim-throughs without being actual swim-throughs. You’ll often find yourself drifting over patches of anemones, and we always seem to spot a clownfish or two, even if they’re just the common ones. The real draw here, for us, is the Electric Clams. They’re these bright red clams with a fringe that flickers with what looks like electricity. They’re not actually electric, of course, but it’s a neat trick. Look for them tucked into crevices or under ledges. We’ve also seen some pretty big pufferfish here, just sort of lumbering around, and the occasional hawkfish perched on a coral head. Visibility usually sits around 12 metres, which is fine for a site this size. It’s a relaxed dive, perfect for photographers or anyone who just wants to take their time and really soak in the smaller details. No strong currents to fight, either, so it’s a good choice for a second or third dive of the day.

Location
Goat Island & Hauraki Gulf, New Zealand, Australasia
Coordinates
-37.560300, 176.396200
Type
reef

Marine Protected Area: Tuhua (Mayor 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 Rena (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 Rena (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