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Scuba diver in front of southern arch at the poor knights islands marine reserve new zealand

Dive Day Trip

$399

Spend a full day exploring the legendary Poor Knights Islands — Jacques Cousteau's favorite subtropical dive site in the World. Two guided dives through spectacular archways, caves, and kelp forests teeming with subtropical marine life.

What to Expect

Your day begins at Tutukaka Marina where you'll check-in, get the scuba gear you might need, and then board our dive vessel for the one hour cruise out to the islands. On the way, our crew will brief you on the day's dive sites, conditions, safety and what marine life to look out for.

You'll complete two dives at different sites around the islands, each chosen by the skipper and crew based on the day's conditions to give you the best possible experience. Between dives, relax on the boat with hot drinks and take in the dramatic volcanic cliffs and birdlife above the waterline.

Your day schedule:

  • Check-in at Dive! Tutukaka at 8:00am and board our vessel from 8:30am.
  • Boat drive from Tutukaka Marina to the Poor Knights Islands.
  • Conduct the first dive at a site chosen by the skipper and crew.
  • Surface interval of about 1.5 hours with time for lunch and hot drinks.
  • Conduct second dive at a different site chosen by the skipper and crew.
  • Tour around the islands including archways, cliffs and Riko Riko Cave when conditions allow.
  • Return to Tutukaka Marina and arrive between 3:30 and 4:30 pm.

Extras:

  • Nitrox tanks available on request
  • Nitrox certification - we can issue nitrox certification on the day, and you get to do your two dives on nitrox tanks. Make sure to tick the box when you book in, or contact us. You will need to complete the e-learning prior to your day out.

Gallery

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FAQs

Do I need to bring my own gear?

No — full equipment hire is available and can be added when booking. If you have your own gear, you're welcome to bring it.

What if the weather is bad?

Safety is our priority. If conditions are unsuitable, we'll contact you before the trip to reschedule or offer a full refund. The Poor Knights are sheltered on multiple sides, so we can usually find a diveable site.

How deep are the dives?

Depths vary by site, typically 12–25 metres. Your divemaster will plan the dive based on the group's experience levels.

Can I bring a non-diver?

Absolutely. Non-divers can join as snorkellers — the snorkelling at the Poor Knights is world-class in its own right.

What should I bring?

- Swimwear - Towel - Sunscreen - Warm clothing or a jacket - Dive certification card - Motion sickness medication if needed - Your own dive gear or wetsuit if preferred - Underwater camera or GoPro - Reusable water bottle