Situated at the top of New Zealand's North Island, Northland is a region known for its pristine beaches, ancient kauri forests, and rich Maori heritage. Its extensive coastline, encompassing both the east and west coasts of the island, offers a diverse range of underwater environments for divers of all levels to explore.
Best Scuba Diving Spots for Experienced Divers
Poor Knights Islands: A marine reserve and a top-rated dive site not just in Northland but globally, the Poor Knights Islands offer divers a vibrant and diverse ecosystem. With underwater caves, arches, and tunnels, it's a playground for advanced divers.
Rainbow Warrior Wreck: An iconic dive site, the Rainbow Warrior is the final resting place of the Greenpeace ship sunk in 1985. Lying at 27 meters, it has become an artificial reef, teeming with marine life.
Best Scuba Diving Spots for Beginners
Tutukaka Coast: Offering a range of dive sites, the Tutukaka Coast is great for novices. With sheltered bays, soft coral gardens, and a myriad of fish species, it's a beautiful introduction to New Zealand diving.
Bay of Islands: With numerous islands and sheltered bays, the Bay of Islands provides a plethora of beginner-friendly sites. Divers can spot stingrays, John Dory, and the occasional dolphin.
Marine Life
Diving in Northland will expose you to a kaleidoscope of marine life. Common sights include moray eels, scorpionfish, nudibranchs, and large schools of blue maomao. The unique topography also attracts pelagic species like kingfish and barracuda, and in some areas, playful seals might join your dive.
Dive Conditions
Water temperatures in Northland fluctuate from about 15°C (59°F) in winter to 21°C (70°F) in summer. Visibility, especially around the Poor Knights Islands, can be exceptional, often reaching over 30 meters. Conditions are generally calm, but certain areas, especially on the west coast, can be influenced by swells.
Cost
A typical two-tank boat dive in Northland might range from NZD 180-250. Equipment rental, if required, would add around NZD 50-100 to the total cost. Those looking to further their diving education can expect starting prices for courses at around NZD 600-800, depending on the dive center.
To sum up, Northland offers a comprehensive dive experience, from its rich historical sites to its vibrant and diverse marine ecosystems. It's a haven for divers venturing to the northern tip of New Zealand.
