Shore dives at Goat Island Marine Reserve deliver dramatic kelp forests, curious snapper, and eagle rays on sandy flats. This guided shore dive offers two in-water sessions and teaches you to read currents and sites while protecting a pioneering marine reserve.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off the shoreline into cool, clear water and the reserve takes you in. Kelp fronds sway like slow hands, schools of silver fish flash away from cliff faces, and the sand flats hold the lazy silhouettes of eagle rays that seem to glide with intent. A shore entry and a short surface swim place you inside Cape Rodney–Okakari Point Marine Reserve, where the underwater world moves around you.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness recommended: comfortable with surface swims, shore entries and repeated finning.
Wildlife
History
Cape Rodney–Okakari Point Marine Reserve was established in 1975 as New Zealand’s first marine reserve to protect reef and kelp ecosystems.
Conservation
The reserve is strictly no-take; visitors are asked to avoid touching or collecting organisms and to follow guides to minimize footprints on sensitive reef habitats.
Reserve your spot on the Goat Island Experience Guided Shore Dive today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Carry proof of certification
You must be a certified diver and show your certification card and log indicating a dive within the last 18 months.
Plan for shore swims
Some sites require a surface swim—practice mask-clearing and surface breathing beforehand.
Dress for cool water
A 5–7mm wetsuit plus hood in cooler months keeps you comfortable during longer dives.
Respect marine reserve rules
No taking of animals or touching fragile life—your guide will point out viewing distances to minimize disturbance.
Full wetsuit (5–7mm)
Keeps you insulated in cool temperate waters, especially during spring and winter.
winter
Mask, snorkel and boots
A good seal and booties make shore entries and kelp navigation easier.
Dive computer
Tracks no‑decompression limits across two guided dives and variable depths.
Macro lens or close-focus camera
Useful for photographing nudibranchs, anemones and sponges in crevices.