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Spend a full day diving the Hen and Chicken Islands from Tutukaka: two tank dives, dramatic walls, kelp gardens and abundant fish life. This guided charter suits certified divers seeking varied topography and the chance to see larger pelagics.
Spend a full day diving the Hen and Chicken Islands from Tutukaka: two tank dives, dramatic walls, kelp gardens and abundant fish life. This guided charter suits certified divers seeking varied topography and the chance to see larger pelagics.
A brisk dawn ride out of Tutukaka trims the harbour lights to a single ribbon and the ocean takes up the rest of the view. The charter eases into wake, and after about 45 minutes the islands rise from the horizon: sheer rock faces, kelp-cloaked boulders and channels that call for close inspection.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by New Zealand Diving Ltd · Tutukaka, Northland
A brisk dawn ride out of Tutukaka trims the harbour lights to a single ribbon and the ocean takes up the rest of the view. The charter eases into wake, and after about 45 minutes the islands rise from the horizon: sheer rock faces, kelp-cloaked boulders and channels that call for close inspection.
The Marotere (Hen and Chicken) group sits off Northland, its volcanic geology shaped by ancient eruptions and wave-carved faulting that create walls and swim-throughs for divers. Māori used nearby waters for kaimoana; today the islands are quieter, valued for fisheries and marine habitat. Currents here shape life — they push plankton into cracks and invite shoals, predators and the crays that shelter under ledges.
Expect two guided tank dives to around 25 m (82 ft) with average visibility of 10–20 m. Topography ranges from steep walls at Sail Rock to kelp gardens and rubble fields where crayfish, yellow morays, blue mao mao, trevally and silver drummer congregate. Summer brings occasional kingfish and active pelagics; dolphins and the rarer whale passage are possibilities.
This full-day charter is practical: boat transport, tanks, weights and optional gear hire are handled on board, but food and land transport aren’t included. Participants must hold at least Open Water certification, have dived within the last 12 months (or arrange a refresher), and complete a dive medical declaration. Watch for surface conditions and timing around flights — no diving within 48 hours of flying. With small groups (max 8) the trip suits divers who want structured guidance and the freedom to explore dramatic underwater terrain.
moderate.
6–10 hours (full-day charter).
Moderate fitness required — able to carry basic kit, board a boat, and complete two dives in a day.
Yes — a minimum Open Water certification and evidence of recent dives (within 12 months) are required; inquire about refresher options if needed.
Dives commonly reach up to 25 m (82 ft) with average visibility between 10–20 metres, though conditions change with season and weather.
Charter inclusions list tanks, weights and offer scuba gear hire; confirm specific kit sizes and rental fees when booking.
This operator lists all sales final; check the vendor’s terms for rescheduling options or store credit if they cancel due to operator reasons.
The islands are volcanic remnants important to local iwi for traditional fishing; European settlers later used nearby coasts for shipping and milling.
These waters are valued for biodiversity; divers should avoid contact with kelp and substrate, report illegal take, and follow local bag limits for crays.
New Zealand Diving Ltd operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
A brisk dawn ride out of Tutukaka trims the harbour lights to a single ribbon and the ocean takes up the rest of the view. The charter eases into wake, and after about 45 minutes the islands rise from the horizon: sheer rock faces, kelp-cloaked boulders and channels that call for close inspection.
A brisk dawn ride out of Tutukaka trims the harbour lights to a single ribbon and the ocean takes up the rest of the view. The charter eases into wake, and after about 45 minutes the islands rise from the horizon: sheer rock faces, kelp-cloaked boulders and channels that call for close inspection.
The Marotere (Hen and Chicken) group sits off Northland, its volcanic geology shaped by ancient eruptions and wave-carved faulting that create walls and swim-throughs for divers. Māori used nearby waters for kaimoana; today the islands are quieter, valued for fisheries and marine habitat. Currents here shape life — they push plankton into cracks and invite shoals, predators and the crays that shelter under ledges.
Expect two guided tank dives to around 25 m (82 ft) with average visibility of 10–20 m. Topography ranges from steep walls at Sail Rock to kelp gardens and rubble fields where crayfish, yellow morays, blue mao mao, trevally and silver drummer congregate. Summer brings occasional kingfish and active pelagics; dolphins and the rarer whale passage are possibilities.
This full-day charter is practical: boat transport, tanks, weights and optional gear hire are handled on board, but food and land transport aren’t included. Participants must hold at least Open Water certification, have dived within the last 12 months (or arrange a refresher), and complete a dive medical declaration. Watch for surface conditions and timing around flights — no diving within 48 hours of flying. With small groups (max 8) the trip suits divers who want structured guidance and the freedom to explore dramatic underwater terrain.