Tuhua (Mayor Island) – Bay of Plenty

Site Overview

Tuhua, also known as Mayor Island, is a remote volcanic island in the Bay of Plenty that offers crystal-clear waters, dramatic volcanic walls, and pristine marine ecosystems far from the mainland influence. The island's volcanic origin creates spectacular underwater topography with sheer walls of volcanic rock dropping from the surface to well beyond recreational diving limits. The crystal-clear water is a result of the remote offshore location, far from terrestrial sediment sources, providing visibility that regularly exceeds 25 metres. Large crayfish are abundant on the volcanic walls, reaching impressive sizes in the protected offshore environment where fishing pressure is minimal. Schools of kingfish patrol the wall edges, their golden bodies contrasting dramatically with the dark volcanic rock and colourful soft coral gardens. Pink maomao aggregate on the deeper wall sections, creating shimmering curtains of purple and blue that move in synchronised waves along the volcanic face. Bronze whaler sharks are occasionally encountered during the warmer months, and marlin and oceanic sharks have been spotted by lucky divers in the blue water beyond the reef edge. The volcanic walls are covered in dense soft coral and sponge gardens that thrive in the nutrient-rich currents flowing around the island. Moray eels occupy the volcanic crevices and overhangs throughout the reef system. The combination of volcanic geology, crystal-clear water, and abundant marine life makes Tuhua one of the premier offshore diving destinations in the Bay of Plenty.