Okapauru Reef

The Okapaura Reef is another fascinating hotspot, rich in marine life including goatfish, scarlet wrasses, moray eels and crayfish, not to mention the regular sightings of whales, dolphins and sharks. The reef sits on the north-east of Mayor Island and is alive with multi-coloured creatures and coral.

The reef varies in depth from 0 – 20m, offering great opportunities for snorkeling and swimming above the boulders, but watch out for the wealth of sea urchins below, which will guarantee you a painful foot if stepped on. There are bubbles to indicate where gas still rises from extinct volcano vents. With all those captivating sights to hold your gaze, don’t forget to come up for air.