Slipper Island (Whenua Hou) – Hauraki Gulf & Coromandel

25m Max

10-25m Vis

boat

Site Overview

Slipper Island, also known as Whenua Hou, is a volcanic island off the Coromandel Peninsula that offers dramatic reef diving with large stingrays, eagle rays, and schools of kingfish in a pristine offshore environment. The volcanic origin of the island creates unique underwater topography with surge channels, lava-formed rock structures, and rocky reefs that support a diverse marine community. Large short-tail stingrays are the highlight of Slipper Island, regularly encountered gliding over the sandy bottom and rocky reef in impressive numbers. Eagle rays visit during the warmer months, their graceful flight through the water adding an extra dimension of excitement. Schools of kingfish patrol the reef edge, hunting the smaller fish that shelter in the volcanic rock formations. The offshore location ensures excellent water clarity and a sense of wilderness diving away from the mainland influence. Dolphins are occasionally encountered during the boat crossing or while diving, adding marine mammal excitement to the reef exploration. The volcanic reef structure creates interesting swim-throughs and overhangs that harbour moray eels and diverse reef fish. The combination of ray encounters, volcanic geology, and offshore diving makes Slipper Island a unique and rewarding destination for divers exploring the Coromandel Peninsula. The island supports a healthy marine ecosystem with diverse fish species, colourful sponge gardens, and occasional visits from dolphins and oceanic pelagics that add excitement to every dive at this unique Coromandel destination.

Dive Briefing

"The dive begins on the volcanic reef at approximately 5 metres, where the distinctive lava-formed rock structures create an interesting underwater landscape. Descend along the reef slope, exploring the surge channels and overhangs that harbour moray eels and small reef fish. Large stingrays are encountered on the sandy patches between reef sections, often in multiples gliding gracefully over the bottom. Eagle rays may cruise the mid-water column during summer months. Schools of kingfish patrol the reef edge at 15 to 20 metres, their golden bodies contrasting with the volcanic rock. The deeper reef at 20 to 25 metres features the most dramatic volcanic formations and the largest stingray aggregations. The return follows the shallower reef at 8 to 12 metres where the light creates beautiful patterns on the volcanic rock. The safety stop is conducted on the shallow reef with schooling fish visible above. Look for eagle rays cruising the mid-water column during the warmer summer months as they provide spectacular sightings above the volcanic reef structure."