Maomao Arch
This magnificent arch offers divers an exciting pathway from the western side to the eastern side of the island. The outer walls of the arch plummet to a depth of 30m, while the inner section gradually becomes shallower, reaching just 5m. On the right side of the arch, towards the eastern side, divers will discover a mesmerizing collection of large boulders and a charming cave nestled around 20m below the surface.
As you navigate through the arch, you'll be captivated by the vibrant hues adorning the walls, adorned with a multitude of fascinating invertebrates. Amongst the enchanting reef fish that call this place home, you'll be delighted to spot Pink and Blue Maomao swimming together in schools.
Situated in the picturesque region of Northland, New Zealand, this dive site is renowned for its crystal-clear waters with visibility up to 16m. With a maximum depth of 18m, this dive site caters to advanced divers seeking a thrilling underwater experience.
Dive into the enticing depths of this New Zealand dive site and uncover its hidden wonders.
As you navigate through the arch, you'll be captivated by the vibrant hues adorning the walls, adorned with a multitude of fascinating invertebrates. Amongst the enchanting reef fish that call this place home, you'll be delighted to spot Pink and Blue Maomao swimming together in schools.
Situated in the picturesque region of Northland, New Zealand, this dive site is renowned for its crystal-clear waters with visibility up to 16m. With a maximum depth of 18m, this dive site caters to advanced divers seeking a thrilling underwater experience.
Dive into the enticing depths of this New Zealand dive site and uncover its hidden wonders.
Diving Conditions Score for Maomao Arch
4.9
Below AverageChallenging conditions, for experienced divers only.
The score is based on a calculation of the current weather and sea conditions.
Dive Site Overview for Maomao Arch
Depth
18m
Visibility
16m
Experience Level
advanced
Weather Conditions for Maomao Arch
Wave Height
0.46m
Wind Speed
10.4 m/s
Water Temp
18.4°C
Visibility
280m
Cloud Cover
48%
Wave Period
9.2s
Air Temperature
15.5°C
Precipitation
0 mm
Detailed 7-Day Diving Forecast for Maomao Arch
Alpha
Dive Score Chart for Maomao Arch
Best time to dive: 6:00 with score 8.08334031007752/10. Water conditions: Waves 0.48m, Wind 3.1 m/s.Best night dive time: 4:00 with score 7.720756015779092/10.
Chart showing hourly dive conditions including wave height, wind speed, water temperature, and visibility throughout the day.
Sunrise at Maomao Arch: 06:00
Sunset at Maomao Arch: 18:00
Optimal diving conditions at Maomao Arch 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
6:00Score: 8.1/10
Waves: 0.48m (8.6s), Wind: 3.1 m/s
Best Night
4:00Score: 7.7/10
Waves: 0.5m, Wind: 1.9 m/s
Seasonal Analysis for Maomao ArchAlpha
Historical patterns and best seasons for diving at Maomao Arch
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 Maomao Arch
Summer
Avg. Score: 7.9/10
Summer offers the warmest water temperatures and generally favorable conditions for all levels of divers.
Best Months for Maomao Arch
July
Score: 8.0
June
Score: 7.8
August
Score: 7.8
Ideal Conditions for Maomao Arch
Water Temp
18.5°C / 65.3°F
March
Visibility
12.0m / 39.4ft
May
Wave Height
1.8m / 5.9ft
December
Wave Period
8.0s
January
Seasonal Insights for Maomao Arch
Maomao Arch follows southern hemisphere patterns with March being the warmest month (18.5°C) and October the coldest (12.7°C). The calmest conditions typically occur in December with average wave heights of 1.8m and wave periods of 8.0s. The most comfortable wave conditions are in December 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). May is usually the driest month with 0.0mm of precipitation. For beginners, the best time to visit would be during December to February, 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
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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