BIG BAY
For the explorers seeking unique underwater experiences, don't miss the hidden cave nestled in the northwestern corner of the bay. Accessible only by snorkeling, this cave boasts a shallow and narrow entrance, eventually leading to a magnificent cavern with a breathtaking opening at the top.
With a visibility of 7m and a maximum depth of 12m, this dive site caters to both beginner and advanced divers. Whether you are just starting your diving journey or a seasoned pro, this location promises unforgettable underwater adventures.
Plan your dive excursion to this remarkable destination at 165 Orchard Road, Hahei, Thames-Coromandel District, Waikato, 3591, New Zealand.
Diving Conditions Score for BIG BAY
Decent conditions, proceed with caution.
The score is based on a calculation of the current weather and sea conditions.
Dive Site Overview for BIG BAY
Depth
12m
Visibility
7m
Experience Level
Weather Conditions for BIG BAY
Wave Height
0.3m
Wind Speed
3.6 m/s
Water Temp
17.2°C
Visibility
7.76km
Cloud Cover
0%
Wave Period
8.75s
Air Temperature
16.1°C
Precipitation
0 mm
Dive Score Chart for BIG BAY
Best time to dive: 6:00 with score 8.588571454880293/10. Water conditions: Waves 0.26m, Wind 3.1 m/s.Best night dive time: 5:00 with score 7.934907407407406/10.
Chart showing hourly dive conditions including wave height, wind speed, water temperature, and visibility throughout the day.
Optimal diving conditions at BIG BAY are affected by daylight hours. Sunrise occurs at 06:00 and sunset at 18:00, which impacts visibility and water temperature for scuba diving and snorkeling.
Score: 8.6/10
Waves: 0.26m (9.05s), Wind: 3.1 m/s
Score: 7.9/10
Waves: 0.26m, Wind: 4.5 m/s
Seasonal Analysis for BIG BAYAlpha
Historical patterns and best seasons for diving at BIG BAY
The dive score combines all factors to rate overall diving conditions throughout the year. Higher scores indicate better diving conditions.
Monthly Dive Score Analysis - Seasonal Diving Conditions
Higher values indicate better diving conditions
Seasonal DiveScore Chart
This chart displays monthly diveScore data throughout the year, showing seasonal patterns. The data is presented as a bar chart with an overlaid line graph.Dive scores range from 1 to 10, with 10 being optimal conditions.
Higher values indicate better diving conditions
Best Season for BIG BAY
Summer
Summer offers the warmest water temperatures and generally favorable conditions for all levels of divers.
Best Months for BIG BAY
Ideal Conditions for BIG BAY
Water Temp
17.6°C / 63.7°F
February
Visibility
14.4m / 47.2ft
January
Wave Height
1.1m / 3.6ft
January
Wave Period
8.0s
January
Seasonal Insights for BIG BAY
BIG BAY follows southern hemisphere patterns with February being the warmest month (17.6°C) and September the coldest (11.2°C). The calmest conditions typically occur in January with average wave heights of 1.1m and wave periods of 8.0s. The most comfortable wave conditions are in January with a low wave steepness ratio, creating gentler swells. January offers the longest wave periods (8.0s), creating more comfortable and predictable conditions for boat entries and exits. Ocean currents are slowest in January (0.5m/s) and strongest in January (0.5m/s). January is usually the driest month with 0.1mm of precipitation. For beginners, the best time to visit would be during January to March, when ocean conditions are calmer with long-period waves and currents are typically weaker. Experienced divers might enjoy the challenges and potentially better visibility during the shoulder seasons, with moderate currents that can improve marine life encounters.
Last updated: 1 min. ago - Jun 14, 2026