M.V. Mataora
Aside from the mesmerizing wreck itself, the surrounding reef boasts an abundance of stunning hard coral structures, making it a haven for underwater enthusiasts. Divers frequent this site not only for the intriguing marine life but also for the opportunity to spot lionfish in their natural habitat.
Located close to the Ministry of Health in Avarua, Te-Au-O-Tonga, diving at the MV Mataora promises exceptional visibility, reaching up to 29 meters, allowing divers to fully immerse themselves in the underwater wonders of Cook Islands.
With its rich history, fascinating wreckage, and vibrant marine ecosystem, the MV Mataora dive site offers an unforgettable experience for divers of all levels. So grab your gear and embark on an adventure to discover the hidden treasures beneath the crystal-clear waters of Rarotonga.
Diving Conditions Score for M.V. Mataora
Decent conditions, proceed with caution.
The score is based on a calculation of the current weather and sea conditions.
Dive Site Overview for M.V. Mataora
Depth
18m
Visibility
29m
Experience Level
Weather Conditions for M.V. Mataora
Wave Height
1m
Wind Speed
10 m/s
Water Temp
18°C
Visibility
15km
Cloud Cover
57.5%
Wave Period
8s
Air Temperature
20°C
Precipitation
0 mm
Dive Score Chart for M.V. Mataora
Best time to dive: 6:00 with score 7.113333333333333/10. Water conditions: Waves 1m, Wind 10 m/s.Best night dive time: 0:00 with score 6.613333333333333/10.
Chart showing hourly dive conditions including wave height, wind speed, water temperature, and visibility throughout the day.
Optimal diving conditions at M.V. Mataora 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: 7.1/10
Waves: 1m (8s), Wind: 10 m/s
Score: 6.6/10
Waves: 1m, Wind: 10 m/s
Seasonal Analysis for M.V. MataoraAlpha
Historical patterns and best seasons for diving at M.V. Mataora
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 M.V. Mataora
Summer
Summer offers the warmest water temperatures and generally favorable conditions for all levels of divers.
Best Months for M.V. Mataora
Ideal Conditions for M.V. Mataora
Water Temp
22.1°C / 71.8°F
June
Visibility
20.1m / 65.9ft
October
Wave Height
0.2m / 0.7ft
January
Wave Period
8.0s
January
Seasonal Insights for M.V. Mataora
M.V. Mataora follows southern hemisphere patterns with June being the warmest month (22.1°C) and December the coldest (18.1°C). The calmest conditions typically occur in January with average wave heights of 0.2m 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 0.0mm 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 22, 2026