THE TWINS, Waikato - Goat Island & Hauraki Gulf

Split Rock is one of those sites that just feels… substantial. It’s a huge pinnacle, absolutely massive, and what makes it special is the deep, dramatic crack running right through the middle, like someone took an axe to it. We love dropping into that split, feeling the reef walls close in, then opening up again as you ascend through the fissure. Sunlight filters down, making the soft corals and sea fans blaze with colour – a really vivid mix of purples and yellows. You'll see plenty of the usual reef suspects here, lots of wrasse and parrotfish, but we’ve had some truly memorable encounters with big schools of fusiliers here, swirling so thick they almost block the light. Keep an eye out for those reef sharks cruising the perimeter; they often make an appearance. From May to October, the nearby cleaning stations draw in manta rays, so if you time it right, you might get a bonus encounter before or after your dive here. It's a great spot for photographers looking for interesting topography and dynamic light, and honestly, it’s just a solid, beautiful dive for anyone who appreciates a dramatic reef structure.

Location
Goat Island & Hauraki Gulf, New Zealand, Australasia
Coordinates
-36.761800, 175.802300
Type
reef

Marine Protected Area: Rabbit 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 THE TWINS, Waikato

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 THE TWINS, Waikato

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the typical depths for diving 'The Twins' wrecks (HMNZS Tui and Waikato)?
The dive site known as The Twins is a reef dive, not a wreck site according to our data, and does not include the HMNZS Tui or Waikato. Divers can expect a maximum depth of 14m, with a notable swim-through located at approximately 10m down right in the middle of the twins. The north and south sides are generally the deepest areas of this dive.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see at 'The Twins' dive site?
At The Twins reef dive site, divers can anticipate encountering a variety of marine life, including numerous spotted demoiselles, kahawai, and other target fish species. This vibrant ecosystem thrives year-round due to good water movement. Our data indicates this is a reef dive, so no wreck features are present, but there is a swim-through.
How challenging are the dives at 'The Twins' for recreational divers, and is wreck penetration possible?
Diving at The Twins is considered an intermediate difficulty dive, requiring a bit of experience from recreational divers. While there are no wrecks for penetration at this reef site, it does feature an exciting swim-through at about 10m down in the middle of the twins. Divers should ensure they have adequate experience and good weather conditions for this dive.
When is the best time of year or what are the ideal weather conditions to dive 'The Twins' wrecks?
For diving The Twins dive site, ideal conditions require a run of decent weather, as water conditions are not good when the rain is present. While marine life like spotted demoiselles and kahawai can be seen all year round, planning your dive for clear, dry weather will ensure the best experience. You can find more information on ideal diving conditions at When to Dive.
What dive certifications and experience are required to dive 'The Twins' wrecks?
To dive The Twins, which is an intermediate level reef dive, a bit of experience is needed. While specific certifications are not detailed in our data, divers should possess the skills and experience commensurate with an intermediate dive rating. Always ensure you are comfortable with the conditions and your personal diving abilities.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions like at 'The Twins' dive site?
At The Twins dive site, divers can generally expect an average visibility of 11m. The site is known for good water movement, which contributes to its vibrant marine ecosystem. However, it's important to note that water conditions are significantly reduced and not good when there is rain.