Dive two purpose-sunk naval wrecks off Tutukaka—HMNZS Waikato and Tui—on guided day trips that combine internal wreck penetration with abundant marine life. Ideal for advanced recreational divers or those booking instructor-guided technical dives.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Salt on your lips and the low thump of the charter’s engine sets the rhythm as you head out from Tutukaka. The coastline slips away—rocky headlands, scrubbed cliffs and the wide mouth of the harbour—and soon the boat anchors above two hulks that have become underwater neighborhoods: HMNZS Waikato and HMNZS Tui. Descending through a blue column, the wrecks grow into structures you can swim through: gun decks, engine rooms and cabins carved into shadow and light.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
6–8 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate physical fitness; able to handle boat transfers, carry gear and perform two open-water dives in a day
Wildlife
History
Both ships were naval vessels deliberately sunk to create accessible wreck dives and artificial reefs, now popular training and recreational sites.
Conservation
Respect no-touch policies on wrecks; these sites act as artificial reefs—avoid disturbing marine life and follow operator guidance to minimize impact.
Reserve your spot on the HMNZS Waikato & Tui Wreck Dives today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Certification minimum
Bring proof of Advanced certification and at least 15 logged dives unless booked with an instructor; operators will check credentials.
Decompression awareness
Plan dives to remain within no-decompression limits and observe conservative surface intervals—avoid flying for 48 hours afterward.
Tide and current planning
Ask the operator about the day’s tide and current; boat positioning and entry/exit depend on conditions.
Boat clothing
Bring warm, windproof layers and a towel for the ride back—wind chill on the boat can be significant even after summer dives.
Certified dive computer
Essential for tracking depth, no-deco limits and multi-tank profiles on wreck dives.
Surface marker buoy (SMB)
Use for safe ascent and to mark your position to the boat above the wreck.
Exposure suit (4/3mm or drysuit)
Water temperatures can be cool year-round; choose a suit appropriate for the season or a drysuit for extended comfort.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Dive light
Useful for penetrating interiors and inspecting shadowed spaces inside the wrecks.