Maketu Shore Dives – Bay of Plenty

12m Max

3-10m Vis

shore

Site Overview

Maketu offers some of the most productive macro shore diving in the Bay of Plenty, with seahorses, pipefish, cuttlefish, and diverse nudibranch populations inhabiting the shallow coastal waters of this small settlement south of Papamoa Beach. The site is characterised by its gentle sandy and rocky bottom, extensive seagrass beds, and sheltered coastal location that creates ideal conditions for small marine species to thrive. Seahorses are the highlight of Maketu diving, with the big-bellied seahorse regularly encountered clinging to seagrass and kelp stipes by patient observers who search systematically through the vegetation. Pipefish are also common, their elongated bodies camouflaged among the seagrass blades where they feed on tiny crustaceans. Cuttlefish visit the shallow coastal waters during the warmer months, their remarkable colour-changing abilities providing extraordinary macro photography opportunities. The nudibranch diversity at Maketu is impressive, with multiple species of colourful sea slugs inhabiting the rocky surfaces and algal-covered substrates in densities that delight dedicated macro photographers. The shallow depth range of 1 to 12 metres and calm conditions make Maketu ideal for extended macro photography sessions where bottom time is maximised and the search for small cryptic species becomes the primary focus. The rural coastal location means the site receives very few divers, preserving the undisturbed marine environment and providing a peaceful diving experience away from the busier sites of the Bay of Plenty.

Dive Briefing

"The dive begins at the shore entry near the Maketu boat ramp, where a short walk across the rocky and sandy substrate leads to the water entry. Descend to the shallow sandy bottom at 2 to 4 metres and begin a systematic search of the seagrass beds and rocky areas for seahorses and pipefish. Move slowly and carefully to avoid disturbing the small marine life. Seahorses are typically found clinging to seagrass stipes at 3 to 6 metres depth. Pipefish swim among the seagrass blades, their camouflage making them challenging to spot. Cuttlefish may be encountered on the sandy bottom during the warmer months. Search the rocky surfaces for nudibranchs, which are diverse and abundant at Maketu. Continue to the deeper areas at 6 to 10 metres where the rocky reef supports more diverse marine communities including octopus and flatfish. The return follows the shallower sandy areas at 2 to 4 metres for a final macro search. The safety stop is conducted in the shallow water near the entry point."