Kaikōura, New Zealand
    Armers Beach

    Sharks Tooth Kaikoura

    Best months: Jun–Oct

    Protected Area

    Armers Beach

    Why dive here

    With 35+ marine species recorded in the area - including humpback whales, seahorses and sperm whales - Sharks Tooth Kaikoura offers some of Kaikōura's richest diving. Water ranges 10-17°C, warmest January, February, March.

    Best timeJun–Oct
    WetsuitA drysuit
    Marine lifeHumpback Whales, Seahorses and Sperm Whales · 35+ species recorded
    Water10-17°C · warmest January, February, March

    Sharks Tooth is a reliable favourite when the swell lets you get out there. We often launch from South Bay Marina, then head north up the coast a little. The maximum depth of 17 metres means you get some decent bottom time, which is lucky, because there’s plenty to look at. Visibility averages about six metres, which isn’t epic, but it’s enough to spot those playful fur seals zipping past. We love the sheer density of fish life here. You’ll weave through schools of moki and butterfish, sometimes so thick they almost obscure the reef. Octopus often peer out from rocky crevices, and you’ll inevitably find crayfish tucked away in ledges. If you’re lucky, a pod of dusky dolphins might even cruise by. It's a great spot for newer divers, but even seasoned pros will enjoy the vibrant activity. Just keep an eye on the surge; it can pick up quickly.

    Safety Notes

    Cold water this month (avg 12°C). Drysuit or thick wetsuit (7mm+) recommended.

    Today05:4318:4212h 59m daylightGolden hour 18:05

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    Conditions

    Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Sharks Tooth Kaikoura

    Sharks Tooth Kaikoura Ocean Conditions

    Monthly averages for Sharks Tooth Kaikoura, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data + Copernicus Marine (EU) - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (-42.41, 173.71) (50km away)

    ExcellentGreatGoodFairPoor★Best monthsThis month

    October Averages

    Sea Temperature

    12°C

    54°F · Range: 10.8–14.6°C

    Current Speed

    14.42 cm/s

    Direction: SW (213.7°)

    Chlorophyll-a

    0.413 mg/m³

    Moderate productivity

    Salinity

    35.08 PSU

    Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data + Copernicus Marine (EU)

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