Whale Shark
(Rhincodon typus)
Stewart Island
Discover the underwater wonders of Stewart Island, where diverse marine life and clear waters await divers of all levels.
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Stewart Island, also known as Rakiura, is a captivating dive area situated at the southernmost point of New Zealand. Known for its rugged landscapes and untouched natural beauty, the island offers a range of diving opportunities suitable for both novice and experienced divers. The waters surrounding Stewart Island are home to a variety of marine life, including kelp forests, sponges, and a diverse array of fish species. Divers can explore the island's underwater landscapes, which feature rocky reefs and occasional shipwrecks. The cool, clear waters provide excellent visibility, allowing for memorable encounters with the local wildlife. While the weather can be unpredictable, the island's remote location ensures a pristine diving environment. Stewart Island's dive sites are accessible by boat, and local operators offer guided tours to help divers make the most of their visit. Whether you're interested in exploring the kelp forests or seeking out the island's unique marine species, Stewart Island promises an unforgettable diving experience.
Diving conditions in Stewart Island
Depths
5 - 30 metres
16.4 - 98.4 ft
Temperature
6 - 15 °C
42.8 - 59 °F
Currents
Moderate to strong, depending on the site and conditions.
Visibility
5 - 20 metres
16.4 - 65.6 ft
Surface
Variable, with potential for choppy conditions.
When to dive in Stewart Island
Best Times:
December to March
The best time to dive at Stewart Island is during the summer months from December to March when the water is warmer and visibility is generally better.
Types of diving in Stewart Island
Reef, Wall diving, Drift diving
Stewart Island offers diverse diving experiences with its reefs, walls, and occasional drift dives, providing opportunities to explore rich marine life and unique underwater landscapes.
Where is Stewart Island?
Stewart Island is located off the southern coast of New Zealand's South Island. It is known for its diverse marine life and unique underwater landscapes.
How to get to Stewart Island
Divers can reach Stewart Island's dive sites via liveaboard or day trip boats, departing from the mainland or local harbours.
Who can dive in Stewart Island
Stewart Island is suitable for divers with at least an Open Water certification due to varying conditions and depths.
What marine life can you see in Stewart Island?
Stewart Island offers a diverse array of marine life, including kelp forests teeming with fish species such as blue cod and trumpeter. Divers may encounter New Zealand fur seals, and occasionally, great white sharks. The waters are also home to various invertebrates, including sea stars and anemones.
You can also see
Summary of Stewart Island
Stewart Island is a unique diving area known for its rugged underwater landscapes and rich marine biodiversity. The combination of kelp forests and diverse marine life makes it a captivating destination for adventurous divers.
