Explore South Island
The South Island of New Zealand, officially named Te Waipounamu, is synonymous with peace, wilderness and impossible standards of rugged beauty. It generally enjoys cooler weather than the smaller and more subtropical North Island but it has a charm all of its own - though the larger of the two islands, it has a smaller population, so you can find your very own slice of paradise.
Though cold, diving in New Zealand is a very popular activity. The clarity and biodiversity of the oceans, fjords and lakes draw in thousands of scuba divers each year. It has a number of dive centres and dive resorts available, most of which are centred around the population hubs of Dunedin and Christchurch, as well as the top diving destinations like Milford Sound and Kaikoura. Many of these offer diving courses from beginner right up to professional, as well as specialty courses like drysuit diving. In a climate where the winter water temperatures plummet to 8oC in August, this course is very popular! Though many people do learn to dive here, especially in the summer, it is worth noting that many dive sites are best enjoyed by more experienced divers. Though there are several liveaboards found around North Island in the summer months, there aren’t any operating around South Island.
The highlights of scuba diving in the South Island are numerous. The kelp forests in Aramoana ole are an eerily unusual place to explore.. The cold, nutrient rich waters pulled up from the deep encourage a wide diversity of marine life including mako sharks, tuna, kingfish, fur seals, dolphins, whales and even great white sharks. The waters of Milford Sound create a unique environment for rare species - the mountains blocking the sunlight mean that species like black coral, normally found below 100m, are seen at much shallower depths.
Top Dive Sites Map
Diving in South Island
South Island, New Zealand, offers an array of dive sites that cater to both shore and liveaboard divers. The wreck of Mikhail Lermontov is a notable site, providing divers with a thrilling exploration of a sunken Russian cruise liner. This wreck is accessible via liveaboard and is ideal for those seeking an adventurous dive through its intricate corridors and rooms.
For shore diving enthusiasts, the Fiordland National Park offers stunning underwater landscapes teeming with unique marine life. Night dives here unveil the enchanting bioluminescence of plankton, creating a magical underwater spectacle. Whether you prefer the convenience of shore dives or the expansive experience of liveaboard trips, South Island's dive sites promise unforgettable underwater adventures.
The best Months to Dive in South Island
South Island offers year-round diving opportunities with varying conditions across the seasons. During summer, water temperatures range from 17°C to 22°C, providing comfortable diving conditions. In contrast, winter temperatures can drop to 8°C–15°C, necessitating thicker wetsuits or drysuits for added warmth. Visibility typically ranges from 10 to 30 meters, with the best clarity often found during the cooler months when plankton blooms are less prevalent. Weather factors such as wind and currents can influence diving conditions, particularly in the exposed coastal regions. The southern coastline can experience stronger winds and swells, especially during the winter months, which may impact dive plans. However, many sheltered bays offer suitable conditions throughout the year. Although diving is possible year-round, the spring season might present less favorable conditions due to increased runoff from rainfall affecting water clarity. Overall, with careful planning, divers can enjoy a wide array of diving experiences on South Island.
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