reef

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SAIL ROCK - GMI

Sail Rock, just a dash out from Goat Island, is one of those spots we always try to hit when we're in the Hauraki Gulf. It’s a proper standout for a reason, despite that sometimes lumpy ride out there. We love it when the swell is down, making the northern side accessible. That's where you’ll often find us hanging out, keeping an eye out for larger pelagics moving through. Drop in, and you're immediately enveloped by the kelp, the sunlight dappling through the fronds. It's an altogether different feel from some of the more southerly reefs. We've had fantastic encounters with massive short-tail stingrays here, gliding over the rocky reef before it gives way to sand around 18-20m. Keep your eyes peeled for those distinctive New Zealand Draughtboard Sharks tucked away. Visibility averages around 8 metres, which, for New Zealand, is pretty good. It’s easy to navigate, just circumnavigate the rock, but do respect those currents; they can pick up quickly. For us, it’s the thrill of seeing something a bit bigger, like a bronze whaler cruising by, that makes Sail Rock so consistently exciting. Divers here can expect a solid New Zealand reef dive, with a good chance of encountering large rays and local shark species. It suits divers who appreciate a site with a bit of a wild edge, offering rewarding sightings for those willing to brave the sometimes exposed conditions.