Oculina Point

Leopard Anemone Point – The Ultimate Dive Site in New Zealand

Leopard Anemone Point, formerly known as Oculina Point, should be renamed to reflect its true glory! Situated in the beautiful bay of Rikoriko Cave, Northland, New Zealand, this dive site offers a captivating experience for divers of all levels – from beginners to advanced experts.

Exploring the underwater wonders of Leopard Anemone Point will leave you awe-struck. As you descend into the depths, the bouldery-kelpy bottom gradually slopes from a depth of about 10 meters, making it accessible even to those with minimal training. The maximum depth reaches an exciting 20 meters, providing ample opportunities for divers to explore.

Immerse yourself in a vibrant marine ecosystem teeming with exotic marine life. Encounter majestic stingrays and eagle rays gracefully swimming by, while schools of snapper, pink maomao, and perch create a spectacle of colors. The sponge gardens and kelp forests add to the visual feast, making each dive a truly unforgettable experience.

Leopard Anemone Point has quickly become a favorite among divers, including myself. Just last weekend, I embarked on an absolutely spectacular dive here, and I'm already eager to return with my camera to capture its splendor. Considering the abundance of leopard anemones at this site, I firmly believe it deserves a rechristening as 'Leopard Anemone Point' or perhaps even 'Leopard's Lair.'

This dive site offers something for everyone, whether you're a cave diving enthusiast or prefer to admire the marine life from a distance. Dive boats conveniently anchor in the bay north of the point, nestled between Scary/Crystal/Isabella Cave and Oculina Point. For those with cave diving training, the direction towards Scary/Crystal/Isabella Cave leads to a fascinating journey through a flattened horizontal opening, which later narrows into a mesmerizing tubular tunnel. However, it's crucial to note that cave diving should only be attempted with proper training, experience, and equipment.

Even if cave diving isn't your cup of tea, don't miss the opportunity to shine your torch into the cave's entrance. You might catch a glimpse of a lovely golden snapper or two. The bay itself features a diverse terrain, with its bouldery-kelpy bottom gradually sloping from 10 meters. Keep an eye out for the elegant stingrays and eagle rays that often grace these waters, especially during the salp season when giant salps find their way into the bay.

As you venture along the wall towards the point, you'll discover a myriad of nudibranchs and encrusting life. However, your mission should be to seek out the magnificent leopard anemones. Look for a significant vertical crevice in the rock, and on the left-hand side (opposite Oculina Point) at a depth of approximately 12-14 meters, you'll find clusters of leopard anemones. These extraordinary creatures have a small brown-spotted base and a diameter of around 3-4 centimeters. Remember to admire them from a distance, avoiding any accidental contact or disturbance.

For those with expertise in trimix diving, Leopard Anemone Point provides an unparalleled experience. Dive deeper and explore the breathtaking sponge garden, nestled among large boulders at a depth of 45-50 meters. Here, you'll encounter hundreds of leopard anemones flourishing on sponges and hydroids, creating a sight of absolute beauty. Don't miss the chance to witness splendid perch and pink maomao swimming in their schools, adding vibrant splashes of color to the underwater landscape. The visibility at these depths is often better, allowing for a clearer view of the surroundings.

Upon reaching the wall at approximately 50 meters, you'll encounter a captivating overhang adorned with encrusting life, providing an enchanting sight for divers. It is here that the depth reaches approximately 60 meters, offering a tantalizing glimpse into the hidden depths. While the sponges and boulders continue beyond this point, it's important to exercise caution and prioritize safety during the ascent.

Complete your decompression in the tranquil bay near the cave, where you can indulge in the joy of spotting nudibranchs, triplefins, and blennies. The generosity of marine life at Leopard Anemone Point guarantees a rewarding dive experience, showcasing the diversity and beauty of New Zealand's underwater world.

Whether you're a beginner, advanced diver, or an expert seeking new depths, Leopard Anemone Point promises an unforgettable adventure. Dive into the wonders of this captivating dive site and unlock the secrets of the underwater realm at this remarkable location in New Zealand.