Haulashore Island (Nelson) – Marlborough Sounds & Nelson/Tasman

15m Max

5-15m Vis

boat

Site Overview

Haulashore Island near Nelson offers accessible and productive reef diving with excellent macro opportunities, diverse nudibranch populations, and good night diving in the sheltered waters of Tasman Bay. The rocky reef surrounding the small island supports a diverse temperate marine community with pipefish, nudibranchs, snapper, moray eels, and crayfish inhabiting the shallow reef structure. The nudibranch diversity at Haulashore Island is impressive, with multiple species of colourful sea slugs inhabiting the rocky surfaces and algal-covered substrates throughout the reef system. Pipefish swim among the kelp stipes and seagrass, their elongated bodies camouflaged among the vegetation where they feed on tiny crustaceans. The shallow depth range of 2 to 15 metres and calm conditions make Haulashore Island ideal for training dives, refresher dives, and family diving. Night diving at the island reveals a completely different underwater world, with crayfish emerging from their daytime hiding spots and octopus becoming more active in their nocturnal hunting. The proximity to Nelson city and the short boat ride make Haulashore Island one of the most accessible dive sites in the Nelson/Tasman region, with multiple operators running regular trips. The combination of easy access, diverse macro life, and excellent night diving makes Haulashore Island a reliable destination for divers visiting the Nelson area.

Dive Briefing

"The dive begins near the island shore at approximately 3 metres, where the rocky reef supports diverse marine communities. Search the rock surfaces systematically for nudibranchs, which are diverse and abundant at Haulashore Island. Pipefish swim among the kelp stipes and seagrass, their camouflage making them challenging to spot. Follow the reef to deeper sections at 8 to 12 metres where the rocky substrate supports more diverse communities. Moray eels occupy the deeper crevices, while crayfish shelter on the rocky ledges. Snapper patrol above the reef in loose schools. Octopus camouflage against the rocky surfaces. The return follows the shallower reef at 3 to 6 metres where the light creates the best conditions for macro photography. The safety stop is conducted in the shallow reef near the boat. Search the rock surfaces systematically for nudibranchs, which are diverse and abundant throughout the reef system. Pipefish swim among the kelp stipes and seagrass, their camouflage making them challenging but rewarding subjects for patient macro photographers."