Frequently asked questions on diving in New Zealand

Q: Do I need to be experienced to dive in New Zealand?

A: Not necessarily, but it depends on the dive location. Most sites have a variety of different sites to choose from, depending on your level of experience. However some dive sites, because of their location, depth or skills required, are only available to divers with the skills and experience do dive safely. You should bring with you your dive ticket and your dive log as evidence of your skills and experience.

Q: Can/should I bring my own equipment?

A: Most people bring their own dive mask, snorkel and fins. However, dive gear can be bulky and heavy, which doesn't fit well if you are doing an extended period of travel. While many people prefer to bring their own equipment, often the benefits or having your own are seriously outweighed by the hassle of having to carry it around with you (and the risk of excess baggage charges from airlines!), and having to clean and dry your equipment while you are travelling. Good quality dive equipment is available for hire from all dive locations and we can include the cost of hire in your dive package. If you have any specific requirements (size, length, etc) please let us know and we can make arrangements for you.

Q: What are the dive conditions like?

A: Conditions vary depending on location, weather conditions, and the time of the year. Average temperatures vary between 16-22C (61-72F) in summer months and 12-15C (54-59F) in winter. Visibility is best in the months from April to September with the cooler winter period. Average site visibility for the Poor Knights varies between 15-30 metres (50-100 ft).

Q: What happens if we can't dive?

A: Most dive sites have poor weather options, but if you are booked to dive and can't due to weather conditions we will either try and re-schedule your dive, suggest an alternative, or provide you with a refund for the dive. If you are on a self-drive tour the best thing to do is to call us and discuss what options are available.

Q: What problems are there with altitude and flying after diving?

A: New Zealand is famous not only for its amazing diving, but also for its mountainous landscapes. As an example of an unplanned trip, driving from the central north island and heading south will take you up over 1000m, which could be a serious problem if you have recently dived! Because of this we take great care in planning our dive itineries, taking into account your travel plans immediately after your dive to ensure the risks are minimised.

Q: Do I need insurance to dive in New Zealand?

A: The short answer is no, but we cannot strongly enough suggest that you take travel insurance when travelling anywhere in the world. We have a number of different policies available with special coverage for diving in New Zealand. The exception to the rule is for all group dive tours - you must have travel insurance with full coverage for scuba diving to 30 metres to participate in our group dive tours.

Q: Do I need a drysuit or wetsuit, and what thickness is recommended?

A: You don't need a drysuit to dive in New Zealand. Most divers use a 5-7mm wetsuit, with a hood in winter months or when diving on the south island. If you have a drysuit though (and are certified to use it) you can of course bring it with you. If you don't have a drysuit and would like to use one we can include the cost of a new drysuit into your package along with the drysuit certification course at the beginning of your tour. Good quality wetsuits are available from all dive locations and the rental price can be included in your package.