Putahaha Island

Putahaha Island is an advanced dive site in the Bay of Islands, reaching 25 meters around this island in the Cavalli Islands group off Northland's east coast. The island's offshore position creates exposure to oceanic conditions and access to the productive marine environment that has made the Cavalli Islands a premium diving destination. The volcanic rock formations around Putahaha Island create dramatic underwater topography with walls, pinnacles, and boulder fields that support diverse marine communities. The deeper sections host the sponge and anemone communities typical of New Zealand's subtropical-temperate reef environments, while the shallower sections feature kelp forests and the dense encrusting growth that makes northern New Zealand diving so visually rewarding. Marine life is abundant, with the island's offshore position attracting species from both the reef and open ocean environments. Large snapper cruise the reef, crayfish occupy crevices throughout the rocky formations, and schooling species including blue maomao and kingfish add dynamic action. The Cavalli Islands' proximity to the Rainbow Warrior wreck site means the broader area supports healthy, productive marine ecosystems. Putahaha Island delivers the quality offshore island diving that makes the Cavalli Islands an essential destination for advanced divers exploring Northland's waters.