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M.V. Mataora

The MV Mataora, a purposely sunken outer island cargo schooner, offers a captivating diving experience in Rarotonga, Cook Islands. Resting at a depth of 10 to 18 meters, this 300-ton vessel, which was originally 45 meters long, provides an intriguing exploration opportunity for beginners and seasoned divers alike. Despite being ravaged by tropical cyclones over the years, the bow and stern of the wreck remain recognizable amidst the wreckage.

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

6.1
Above Average

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

beginner

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

Detailed 7-Day Diving Forecast for M.V. Mataora
Alpha

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.

Sunrise at M.V. Mataora: 06:00
Sunset at M.V. Mataora: 18:00

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.

🌞
Best Overall
6:00

Score: 7.1/10
Waves: 1m (8s), Wind: 10 m/s

🌙
Best Night
0:00

Score: 6.6/10
Waves: 1m, Wind: 10 m/s

Seasonal Analysis for M.V. Mataora
Alpha

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

Avg. Score: 10.0/10

Summer offers the warmest water temperatures and generally favorable conditions for all levels of divers.

Best Months for M.V. Mataora

May
Score: 10.0
June
Score: 10.0
July
Score: 10.0

Ideal Conditions for M.V. Mataora

Water Temp

Thermometer Emoji

22.1°C / 71.8°F

June

Visibility

Telescope Emoji

20.1m / 65.9ft

October

Wave Height

Wave Emoji

0.2m / 0.7ft

January

Wave Period

Wave Emoji

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.

Scoring Legend:
9-10 (Excellent)
7-8 (Good)
5-6 (Average)
3-4 (Poor)
1-2 (Dangerous)

Last updated: 1 min. ago - Jun 22, 2026

Note: This dive site is not a verified dive site. Please dive with caution. This dive site might have incorrect information by the community.

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