Scuba Diving in Kaikoura (Reef Diving)

Kaikoura might be famous for its whales and dolphins, but there’s so much more to the marine environment here.

The smaller creatures and natural wonders of the Kaikoura coastline can provide as much fascination and memorable experiences as seeing whales and dolphins. And you can get up close to it all by going scuba diving in Kaikoura!

Although Kaikoura is not known as one of the best locations to go diving in New Zealand (top spots include the Coromandel Peninsula and Bay of Islands on the North Island, and even Milford Sound on the South Island), there are some fantastic reef diving opportunities at Kaikoura and it’s a bit of a hidden gem for diving enthusiasts, with most divers wanting to head to the more well known locations.

What can you see in Kaikoura on a diving trip?

Depending where exactly you go diving around Kaikoura, there’s an astounding array of marine life to immerse yourself in:

  • Seals
  • Octopus
  • Crayfish
  • Sponges
  • Rays
  • Invertebrates
  • Anemones
  • Various fish species such as Wrass, Butterfish and Blue Cod
  • Limestone reef

How to Go Diving in Kaikoura

Going out with an experienced, expert diving operator is the only way to responsibly and ethically dive in Kaikoura; and it will ensure you benefit from the expert local knowledge of guides, in addition to having the peace of mind that all safety requirements are being taken care of and of course: providing you the right gear to rent unless you’ve travelled with your own.

Dive Kaikoura is the main diving operator in town.

The company is run by people with decades of experience and in intricate knowledge of the local marine life. They know exactly where to take you diving to show you what you want to see, and do what you want to do.

Dive Kaikoura has around a dozen sites around Kaikoura that they can take you out diving to. They range in depth from just 5m up to 30m, so you can choose what you’re comfortable with.

If underwater photography is a passion for you, the company specialises in this, and some sites in particular are outstanding for photographic opportunities.

Spy Glass Point is a great spot, as are Pinn and Lynch Bay. The company will be able to recommend a diving location to you based on your level of experience, and what you’d like to get our of your dive.