reef

Log This Dive

Barcadera Reef

Coralie Bay, over on the eastern side of the Great Mercury Islands, is one of those places we often forget about but always remember fondly once we’re there. It's an easy dive, a perfect spot to just chill out and explore without battling any big currents. You drop in and find this classic New Zealand kelp forest, huge fronds swaying back and forth, filtering the sunlight into green shafts. We love drifting through those kelp tunnels; it feels like you're in a secret underwater garden. Look closely among the holdfasts for little blennies and triplefins, often camouflaged so well you'll swim right past them if you're not paying attention. The sandy patches between the rocky reefs are great for spotting rays settled on the bottom, and if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of an orca cruising through the bay – it’s happened to us a few times. Visibility usually sits around 8 metres, which is decent enough for exploring the reef’s contours and the numerous crayfish hiding in the cracks. It’s a solid pick for divers who want a relaxed experience and a good chance at spotting some larger visitors.