| Norman Reef |
| This reef has moorings belonging to several dive operations and each uses different parts of the back of this superb little reef. Maori wrasse, moray eels, giant clams anemones and there commensals are pernament features. Along the reef back are series of large bommies, staghorn thickets and hillocks of rich coral cover. Sandy areas are deeper doen often have garden eels but you need to wait for them to emerge as they are extremly timid. Almost all divers start with a giant stride entry from a boat. You either swim up to the shallows or out deeper and then back in depending on your experiance. Amphiheater-like sandy floors are surrounded by coral like hillocks, reef edge and bommmies. Take your time around the bommies and at the reef edge, as there are some excellent swim-throughs and a few caves, some of which are not safe for divers. You will need a guide to show you the which ones are safe. Walls of all sizes and shapes are with gullies, crevices and over hangs are common. In mid- to late winter, minke whales take over this whole area of reefs. Batfish, drummers, sprangled emperors, fusiliers and red bass join in. Look for some of the more large, Maori wrasse that hang around , particulary if you ignore them. Pay them any specific attention and they tend to shy away. Turtles are regulars, but will normally leave as soon as you see them. Wide angle and macrophotography are both rewarding here and occasional white tip sharks thrill as you get the shot. |
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