15 Best Places to Scuba Dive in New Zealand [2026]

Last Updated: 21 July, 2024

What’s That? New Zealand is Awesome Underwater Too?

Qualified divers are spoiled with different types of dives off the coast of New Zealand. Nevertheless, if you are a newbie to the dive scene there are plenty of awesome dives to do with activity providers.

The islands off the shore of the North Island attract tropical fish, whereas the fiords found in the South Island provide the perfect environment for black coral. Dive deep into the waters of the famous Milford Sound, or there is a choice of wreck dives, especially around the Bay of Islands and Northland, for more technical divers. You can even explore the ocean that attracts so many sea mammals in Kaikoura.

Just remember to dive safely and always have a dive buddy!

1. Poor Knights Islands

Poor Knights Islands is mostly known for its diving opportunities. There are four dive spots, but your diving trip isn’t complete until you do the Maomao Arch, with thousands of maomao swimming around you! With tropical currents often coming through the area, this often brings a fascinating array of fish. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, operators like Dive! Tutukaka and Freedive Aotearoa offer trips to suit your skill level. Access Poor Knights Islands from Tutukaka in Northland.

Location: Tutukaka Coast, Northland, North Island. Boat access only from Tutukaka Harbour.

2. White Island

The waters off White Island, New Zealand’s most active volcano, attract colourful tropical marine life and larger fish. There are three dive spots: Volkner Rocks, Club Rocks and Liason’s Reef. Check out the underwater vents too in this unique volcanic location. White Island and its dive sites can be accessed from Whakatane in the Bay of Plenty. If you have more time in the area, check out Seafire Shipwreck just off Whale Island (Moutohora). Scuba diving at White Island and Moutohara is available with Diveworks Fishing Charters.

Location: Whakatane, Bay of Plenty, North Island.

3. Tui Wreck

Another one on the Tutukaka coast, this former naval research vessel was sunk for the purpose of an artificial reef, so amongst the growth, there are golden snapper and an array of fish species that will keep you entertained for as long as your oxygen allows. Tui Wreck is another dive site off Tutukaka in Northland.

Location: Tutukaka Coast, Northland, North Island. Boat access only from Tutukaka Harbour.

4. The Mikhail Lermontov Wreck

For divers who live by the “go big or go home” mantra, the Mikhail Lermontov wreck dive is an absolute must. As the largest shipwreck dive in Australasia, this site pushes the limits of recreational diving at 37 m (121 ft) deep. While many upper parts are accessible to most skill levels, it’s an ideal dive for using Nitrox and a thrilling challenge for advanced divers. Due to the cold waters of the Marlborough Sounds, a 7 mm wetsuit is essential, with a dry suit being preferable. Although there are no local dive shops at the site, New Zealand Dizing offers multi-day charters to make the most of it.

Location: Port Gore, Marlborough Sounds, South Island.

5. Aramoana Mole

If you’re looking for an easily accessible dive near Dunedin, you’ll love the Aramoana Mole. This southern South Island gem offers a chance to discover underwater forests and their fascinating inhabitants. You might even bump into some playful seals along the way (we’re not kidding)! The dive site features several wrecks that act as artificial reefs, creating a haven for marine life. Keep your eyes peeled for carpet sharks, telescope fish, and New Zealand hooker sea lions as you glide through the kelp forests. A word to the wise: be prepared for the chilly southern waters. We recommend a good wetsuit to keep you toasty while you’re taking in the underwater wonders.

Location: Aramoana, Dunedin, South Island. Located at the entrance to Otago Harbour, about 20 km northeast of Dunedin city centre.

11 Best Places to Scuba Dive in New Zealand

6. Fiordland National Park

The fiords in Fiordland National Park shelter its water, keeping it calm and clear for undisturbed visibility. Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound are known to have black and red coral giving you the opportunity to see wildlife that would usually be a lot deeper in the ocean. Allow yourself multiple days in Milford Sound, as scuba diving is often rescheduled after heavy rain. Diving is available with Descend Scuba Diving. Want to know more about Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound? Check out the 10 Best Things to Do in Fiordland National Park.

Location: Milford Sound, Fiordland National Park, South Island.

7. Kapiti Island

Known for its marine reserve status and rich biodiversity, Kapiti Island is a fantastic dive spot just off the coast of Wellington. You’ll love exploring the underwater world here, which is home to rare fish species and vibrant marine life. Kapiti Island isn’t just famous for its offshore attractions; it’s also the namesake of the popular New Zealand cheese and ice cream brand. But we’re here to talk about diving, right? For the adventurous souls out there, Kapiti Island is particularly popular for spearfishing. However, make sure you’re aware of the marine reserve boundaries before you go! If you’re keen to dive here, we recommend booking with Dive Kapiti. They know the area like the back of their hand and can guide you to the best spots.

Location: Kapiti Island, Wellington, North Island. Accessible by boat from Paraparaumu Beach.

8. Rainbow Warrior

Just off the coast of the Bay of Islands is the sunken Rainbow Warrior. The Rainbow Warrior was a Greenpeace ship on its way to protest France’s nuclear testing in Muroroa when it was sabotaged in the Auckland Harbour and sunk in 1985. It now rests as an artificial reef in the Cavalli Islands attracting all kinds of marine life. Dive trips to the Rainbow Warrior are available with Paihia Dive.

Location: Cavalli Islands, Bay of Islands, North Island. Tours with Paihia Dive depart from Paihia town centre.

9. Kaikoura

Kaikoura isn’t just about whale watching and dolphin swimming; it’s also a diver’s paradise! The underwater world here is teeming with marine life, from colourful fish to playful seals. You’ll have the chance to dive among impressive kelp forests and explore fascinating limestone reefs. Keep your eyes peeled for curious New Zealand fur seals that might join you underwater! For those new to diving, don’t worry! Dive Kaikoura offers courses for beginners, as well as guided dives for more experienced divers. They’ll ensure you have a safe and unforgettable underwater adventure. After your dive, why not warm up with some local seafood? Kaikoura is famous for its crayfish (you’ll find more details in our 25 Best Things to Do in Kaikoura).

Location: Kaikoura, South Island, New Zealand. Dive sites are accessible by boat from Kaikoura town.

10. Mercury Islands

Dive into an underwater wonderland at the Mercury Islands! You’ll be amazed as you swim amongst hundreds of schools of fish, spot curious octopus, and (if you’re lucky) even catch a glimpse of sharks in the marine reserve surrounding the Mercs’ waters. This fantastic dive location is accessible from Whitianga on the Coromandel Peninsula, where you’ll find the experienced team at Dive Zone Whitianga. What’s great about the Mercury Islands is that there are so many different bays and rocks to choose from, meaning we can always find a sheltered spot no matter which way the wind is blowing.

Location: Coromandel, North Island. Tours depart from Whitianga.

11. The Canterbury

If you are a qualified diver then you have the opportunity to dive to one of the Bay of Island‘s most popular dive sites, the wreck of the HMNZS Canterbury. This huge and intact shipwreck is impressive to swim through with a highlight being the helicopter hanger. This is another dive site accessible from Paihia, available on trips with Paihia Dive and Dive North.

Location: Bay of Islands, North Island.

12. Goat Island Marine Reserve

Discover New Zealand’s first marine reserve at Goat Island, an ideal spot for beginners and snorkellers. This underwater wonderland is frequented by snapper, kingfish, dolphins, orcas, and fur seals, offering a diverse marine ecosystem to explore. The shallow and relatively warm waters (at least for New Zealand) make Goat Island an excellent place to learn snorkelling or diving. Operated by Goat Island Dive & Snorkel, this activity provides an accessible introduction to New Zealand’s rich marine life. Whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced snorkeller, you’ll love the vibrant underwater scenes and the chance to get up close with various sea creatures.

Location: Goat Island Marine Reserve, Leigh, Auckland, North Island. Approximately 90 km (56mi) north of Auckland.

13. Stewart Island

For an unforgettable underwater adventure, try shark cage diving off Stewart Island. This thrilling experience is actually operated from Bluff, on the southern coast of New Zealand’s South Island, by Shark Experience. You’ll have the chance to come eye-to-eye with an array of sharks from the safety of a dive cage. No diving experience is necessary, as you’ll be attached to a hose at the surface rather than using tanks. It’s the perfect way to get that special moment with nature while staying safe! The season runs from 1st December through summer, giving you plenty of opportunities to witness the amazing marine life of the Foveaux Strait and the beautiful northern Titi Islands. Along with sharks, you might spot some fantastic fish and seabirds.

Location: Bluff, Southland, South Island. The dive site is in the waters around Stewart Island.

15 Best Places to Scuba Dive in New Zealand [2025]

14. Auckland East Coast Bays

Auckland’s underwater world is a treasure trove for scuba diving enthusiasts. The city’s East Coast Bays, nestled on the North Shore, offer a string of accessible shore diving spots that are popular among local divers. One of the standout diving locations is Mathersons Bay. It’s particularly famous for night diving, giving you the chance to see unique marine life that comes out after dark. (Don’t forget your underwater torch!) Dive HQ Auckland regularly organises club night dives here, so you might want to join one of their trips if you’re new to the area. If you’re just starting your diving journey, you’re in luck! Mathersons Bay is also considered a safe site for beginners, making it ideal for open water dives during learn-to-dive courses. You’ll love the calm conditions and the abundance of marine life. For those looking to explore further, Auckland’s waters offer encounters with colourful fish, fascinating shipwrecks, and even the chance to spot larger marine creatures. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a curious newbie, Auckland’s underwater playground has something for everyone.

Location: East Coast Bays, North Shore, Auckland, North Island. Accessible via various entry points along the eastern coastline.

15. Auckland’s West Coast Reefs

Get ready for an exciting underwater adventure on Auckland’s rugged West Coast reefs! These dive sites boast diverse marine life, including crayfish and colourful reef fish. It’s a thrilling experience for both beginners and seasoned divers alike. You’ll be amazed by the vibrant underwater ecosystems and the chance to spot some of New Zealand’s unique marine species. Local Auckland dive shops, i.e. Dive HQ offer guided tours to these hidden gems, ensuring a safe and memorable diving experience. Don’t forget your underwater camera – you’ll want to capture the beauty of these pristine reefs! Trust me.

Location: West Coast beaches, Auckland, North Island. Accessible from various points along Auckland’s western coastline.

More About Scuba Diving in New Zealand

That’s it for our guide to scuba diving in New Zealand, for more information about water activities and beaches, check out the following articles:

Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in our 101 Things to Do in New Zealand: The Ultimate List.

Sources:

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2025])
Adventure Mark (Health and Safety Audit - Updated [2025])
Work Safe NZ (Adventure Activities Guidelines - Updated [2025])
Department of Conservation (Tracks, hikes, campsites and more - Updated [2025])
AdventureSmart (Know before you go - Update [2025])
NZ Māori Tourism (Official Māori Tourism platform - Updated [2025])
Tourism Export Council New Zealand (Tourism trade association - Updated [2025])
TIA (Independent tourism association - Updated [2025])
Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2025])
Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2025])

Our editorial standards: At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author

Laura S.

This article has been reviewed and published by Laura, the editor-in-chief and co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. Laura is a first-class honours journalism graduate and a travel journalist with expertise in New Zealand and South Pacific tourism for over 10 years. She also runs travel guides for five of the top destinations in the South Pacific and is the co-host of over 250 episodes of the NZ Travel Show on YouTube.

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