Board a full‑day charter from Matauri Bay to dive the intact Rainbow Warrior wreck in the Cavalli Islands. Two tank dives reach around 27 m, offering both a slice of maritime history and vibrant marine life.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off the skiff into a clean, ocean-breathed morning; the Cavalli Islands sit low on the horizon while the dive boat hums and crews readied tanks. The wreck lurks below a sheet of blue—an intact hull at about 27 m that now hosts encrusting sponges, schools of snapper and curious reef fish.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6–7 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: able to carry kit, perform surface swims and handle multiple dives in a day
Wildlife
History
The Rainbow Warrior served as an activist vessel; its final resting place off the Cavalli Islands has become both a dive attraction and a reminder of maritime and political history.
Conservation
The site is managed with conservation in mind—divers are asked to follow low‑impact practices to protect marine life that now inhabits the wreck.
Reserve your spot on the Rainbow Warrior Dive Charter today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Show proof of certification
Bring your dive card and logbook—operators require minimum Open Water certification and a recent dive history within 12 months.
Check your dive computer and alarms
Depths reach ~27 m—set appropriate ascent alarms and plan no‑decompression limits with your buddy before each dive.
Protect against sun and seasickness
Long daylight aboard and transfers increase sun and motion‑sickness exposure—wear reef‑safe sunscreen and bring medication if prone to seasickness.
Respect the site
The wreck is both historical and ecological—no touching or removing artifacts and avoid disturbing marine life sheltering in the hull.
Wetsuit (5–7mm)
Keeps you warm in northern NZ water and protects against scrapes on the wreck.
summer
Dive computer
Necessary for depth tracking, no‑decompression limits and safe ascent profiles to 27 m.
Surface marker buoy (SMB)
Important for boat pickups and signaling during surface intervals.
Logbook & certification card
Operators require proof of certification and recent dives before boarding.