Great Barrier Island
New Zealand's best-kept secrets for diving enthusiasts
A Pristine Diving Paradise in New Zealand
Great Barrier Island (Aotea) is one of New Zealand’s best-kept secrets for diving enthusiasts.
Located just 100 kilometres northeast of Auckland in the Hauraki Gulf, this remote paradise offers some of the most spectacular underwater experiences in the country.
Overnight trips are available by booking accommodation at Orama Oasis. You can travel there by plane or ferry from Auckland or catch a boat ride with us from Whangarei Harbour.
Underwater Wonderland
The waters surrounding Great Barrier Island feature outstanding biodiversity. Divers can explore:
- Dramatic underwater rock formations and swim-throughs
- Vibrant seaweed forests and rocky reefs teeming with fish
- Underwater caves and archways formed by ancient volcanic activity
Great Barrier Island
Unforgettable adventures in one of New Zealand's most pristine marine environments
Marine Life Encounters
The island’s protected marine environment hosts an incredible diversity of sea creatures:
- Schools of kingfish, snapper, and blue maomao
- Graceful stingrays gliding along sandy bottoms
- Playful bottlenose dolphins that often accompany boats
- Seasonal visitors, including whales and hammerhead sharks
Perfect Diving Conditions
Great Barrier Island offers ideal diving conditions year-round:
- Summer water temperatures reach 22°C (December-February)
- Relatively mild winter diving at 14-16°C (June-August)
- Protected bays for beginners and challenging sites for experienced divers
- Less crowded dive sites compared to more commercial locations
Beyond the Dive
When not underwater, you can enjoy:
- Pristine beaches with golden sand and turquoise waters
- Natural hot springs at Kaitoke Hot Springs
- Dark sky sanctuary status, offering spectacular stargazing
- Hiking trails through ancient kauri forests and coastal tracks
Eco-Conscious Adventure
Great Barrier Island embodies sustainable tourism:
- Off-grid living with solar power across the island
- Limited commercial development preserving natural beauty
- Strong local conservation efforts are protecting marine ecosystems
- Authentic connection with New Zealand’s natural environment
Come experience the untouched beauty of Great Barrier Island’s underwater realm with us. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or an eager beginner, this hidden gem offers unforgettable adventures beneath the waves in one of New Zealand’s most pristine marine environments.
Ready to explore the Great Barrier Island?
Exploring the Great Barrier Island with us
Local Knowledge
We know these waters inside out, from marine life to local history, and love sharing stories that make the journey unforgettable.
Small Groups, More Connections
No crowds, no rush. Just space to relax, enjoy, and truly take in the experience.
Comfort and Care Onboard
Step onto our modern 2024 Stabicraft, complete with hot drinks, a friendly crew, and plenty of comfort for a smooth day on the water.
Access to Extraordinary Places
From Great Barrier Island to Whangaroa Harbour, we’ll take you to stunning spots most operators don’t reach.
Safety First
With Maritime NZ certification, top navigation gear, and decades of experience, you can relax knowing you’re in safe hands.
Eco-conscious Adventures
Every charter is run with the environment in mind, because protecting the ocean we love is non-negotiable.
Want to book a trip with us?
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Our customers say…
Sven Franklin
Australia
Had an amazing time out with Blair. He really knows his spots and put us all on to kings! Was an amazing day and easily the best dive I’ve had for the whole of 2017!
Max Schofield
New Zealand
Great boat for getting (quickly) to Great Barrier and the Mokohinaus. Last trip we came up from Wellington stayed locally and Blair really looked after us, including weights.
Gray Bidgood
New Zealand
I have been on three charters with Blair, and will definitely be going on more! He put me onto my first of a bunch of species including Kingfish, Snapper, Trevally, Boarfish and more! No matter the conditions he had a spot to go dive and see awesome territory and fish life.
Hayden Dorman
New Zealand
As a beginner at spearfishing I took my first ever boat trip out with blair an was a epic day.. Blair has great knowledge on selecting spots an also helping with tips and hunting techniques. A very comfortable boat even with a full charter.. Blair runs a awesome friendly trip an do recommend to spearos of any experience always a memorable day.
Esther Stuck
New Zealand
Ocean diversity is a fantastic spearfishing charter! I really enjoyed the couple of times Blair took us out, he is an awesome guide and really knows his stuff. Blair took us to some great spots, and knew when the fish was "on"! We came home with a great haul and even scored a crayfish on our first trip out! Would highly recommend this charter with the pleasure of having a friendly, knowledgeable skipper.
Scott Walker
New Zealand
Blair runs a great charter, and knows the spots, times and tides to pick up great fish. Can't wait to get back out with Oceandiversity.
Wendy
New Zealand
Recently we took a morning boating trip with OceanDIVEsity, departing Marsden Cove, out to the Hen and Chicken Islands off the coast of Bream Bay. We had a great morning. Only six people on board plus Blair and he took us to some really superb places to snorkel.
