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Whangaumu Bay

Whangaumu Bay, a short drive from Tutukaka, is a spot we really appreciate for its quiet charm and ease of access. Forget deep dives here. This is all about exploring the nooks and crannies of the rocky shallows, typically hovering around 4-7 metres. We often see long-tailed stingrays gliding across the sandy patches and the occasional eagle ray flapping past, especially if you get in early. Our favourite approach here is kayak diving. You can paddle out, drop in, and let the gentle surge push you along the rock walls. The visibility averages around 4 metres, which means you’re always right on top of the action. Keep an eye out for snapper darting in and out of the kelp, and the vibrant colours of olive anemones clinging to the rocks. It’s not about big pelagics here, though a bronze whaler isn't unheard of. Instead, it’s about the smaller wonders: the nudibranchs, the small crayfish tucked into crevices, and the surprisingly intricate world of the kina and starfish. This is a brilliant site for newer divers or those who just want a relaxed, unpressured snorkel or shallow dive, focusing on macro life and the simple beauty of the New Zealand coast.