There are reefs around the northern side of Long Island and the bottom slopes away on the eastern side. Towards the south east there is a steeper drop off where more pelagic species may be seen cruising by.

The best diving here is to depths of 12 - 15 metres, Visibility typically ranges between five and ten metres. Due to the sheltered nature of this site (both from southerly winds and swells) and shallow average depth, this is a good site for new divers.

Aquatic Life:

Thanks to protection afforded by the marine reserve many species here are larger and more "friendly" than elsewhere, in particular blue cod, rock lobster and butterfish.

Common fish species include spotties, banded and scarlet wrasses, blue and red moki, marble fish, spotties, sea perch, butterfly perch, leather jackets and tarakihi.

Harmless carpet sharks are occasionally seen here usually sitting on the bottom.

Directions:

Long Island and Kokomohua (a rock off the northern end of Long Island) are located in outer Queen Charlotte Sound in the Marlborough Sounds. Access is by boat only. Boat charters leave from dive operations in Picton.

A popular site here is called Jurassic Park (named after the massive rock lobster (crayfish) that are protected by the marine reserve here) which is sheltered from the southerly winds that stir up other sites in this area. Ask local dive shops for details. The southwestern end of Long Island also has some great diving. Try starting on the southeastern side and working your way around the bottom of the island and up a bit on the western side. Towards the end of the dive there is a steep drop-off which larger pelagic fish often cruise by.