The Maze (Whangaroa) – Northland & Bay of Islands

20m Max

8-18m Vis

boat

Site Overview

The Maze at Whangaroa is a unique and fascinating dive site consisting of an extensive network of giant boulders that have tumbled from the surrounding cliffs, creating a labyrinthine underwater landscape of swim-throughs, tunnels, arches, and caverns that reward exploration with abundant marine life at every turn. The boulders, some the size of houses, are covered in colourful sponges, algae, and encrusting organisms that create a kaleidoscope of textures and colours in the torch light. Moray eels are exceptionally abundant in the Maze, occupying virtually every suitable crevice and often extending their heads to observe passing divers with apparent curiosity. Large crayfish, known locally as rock lobsters, patrol the boulder surfaces and hide in the darker recesses. Schools of blue maomao and demoiselles flow through the channels between boulders like rivers of silver and blue. The complex three-dimensional structure of the Maze makes navigation an exciting challenge, with new passages and discoveries around every corner. The relatively shallow depth range of 3 to 20 metres and calm conditions make the Maze accessible to divers of various experience levels, while the exploration aspect keeps experienced divers engaged. The Whangaroa Harbour setting adds to the scenic beauty with mangrove-lined shores and lush subtropical vegetation visible during the boat ride to the site.

Dive Briefing

"The dive begins at the entrance to the main boulder field at approximately 5 metres, where the first massive boulders create an impressive gateway into the maze. Enter the main channel and follow it through the boulders, using your torch to illuminate the dark passages and reveal moray eels and crayfish in the crevices. The channels wind through the boulder field at depths of 8 to 15 metres, with multiple intersections and side passages that invite exploration. Some swim-throughs are narrow enough to require single-file passage, while others open into larger caverns with light filtering from above. Schools of blue maomao fill the wider channels, creating beautiful compositions against the colourful boulder walls. Moray eels are encountered throughout the dive, often in multiples at a single location. Large crayfish are abundant on the boulder surfaces and in the darker recesses. The return follows a shallower route over the top of the boulders at 5 to 8 metres, where the light reveals colourful sponge and algae growth. The safety stop is conducted on the boulder crest near the exit point. Keep track of your route as the maze can be disorienting."