Barneys Rock
Protected Area
Rileys Lookout
Why dive here
With 35+ marine species recorded in the area - including humpback whales, seahorses and sperm whales - Barneys Rock offers some of Kaikōura's richest diving. Water ranges 13-18°C, warmest January, February, March.
Barney’s Rock is a reliable Kaikōura site, best known for its resident population of dusky dolphins. The site itself is a rocky reef structure, often with bull kelp swaying in the surge. You’ll frequently spot crayfish tucked into crevices, alongside butterfish and moki. It’s a good option for divers looking for a straightforward dive with a high chance of marine mammal encounters.
Safety Notes
Cold water this month (avg 13°C). Drysuit or thick wetsuit (7mm+) recommended.
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Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Barneys Rock
Barneys Rock Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for Barneys Rock, sourced from Copernicus Marine satellite data
August Averages
Sea Temperature
13.46°C
56°F
Current Speed
10 cm/s
Direction: SW (216.9°)
Chlorophyll-a
0.335 mg/m³
Moderate productivity
Salinity
35.18 PSU
Data sources: Copernicus Marine Service (EU)
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