Full-Day Scuba Diving at Goat Island Marine Reserve (2 Dives)
Spend a full day diving Goat Island Marine Reserve with two guided dives among kelp forests, snapper, and stingrays. This sheltered, research-rich reserve suits certified divers looking for accessible, wildlife-rich underwater scenery.
The Experience
Before You Go
Carry certification and recent logbook
Bring proof of Open Water certification and evidence of recent dives; a refresher is required if you haven't dived in 12 months.
Observe surface interval and no-fly rules
Do not plan air travel within 48 hours of diving; follow the dive brief on minimum surface intervals.
Prepare for cool water
Water temps can be cool year-round—use a 5–7mm wetsuit or drysuit depending on the season for comfort on both dives.
Manage seasickness proactively
Take antiemetic medication before the trip if you are prone to seasickness; the boat ride can be choppy in open stretches.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Short walk to Leigh’s wharf and fish market for fresh local seafood after your dive
- •Tawharanui Regional Park beaches and bird hides—good for post-dive shore exploration and birdwatching
Wildlife
- •Stingrays
- •Blue maomao (and occasional dolphins)
Conservation Note
Fishing and taking marine life is prohibited inside the reserve—respect briefings, avoid contact with animals and practice careful buoyancy to protect fragile reef life.
Goat Island was designated New Zealand’s first marine reserve in the 1970s; the nearby Leigh Marine Laboratory has supported decades of marine research.
What to Bring
Wetsuit (5–7mm) or DrysuitEssential
Keeps you warm during dives in temperate New Zealand waters.
Dive computerEssential
Monitors depth and no-decompression limits for safe ascent planning.
Surface marker buoy (SMB)
Useful for surface safety and to mark your ascent to the boat.
Antiseasickness medication or patches
Helps prevent nausea during the boat transit to dive sites.
Common Questions
Do I need a certification to join this charter?
Yes — participants must have at least Open Water certification and should have dived recently; a refresher course or paid guide may be required if you lack recent experience.
What are typical water temperatures and visibility?
Water temps range roughly 12–18°C depending on season; visibility commonly varies from 5–20 meters depending on swell and plankton.
Is the trip suitable for beginners?
Beginner certified divers can participate if they meet the certification and recent-diving requirements; inexperienced divers should arrange a local guide before the trip.
How many divers are on each charter?
Charters limit numbers (typically up to 8 divers) to keep briefings and in-water supervision manageable.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
7 hours
Location
Leigh, Auckland Region
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: able to handle boat transfers, surface swims and two 40–60 minute dives in sequence
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