Sharks Tooth Kaikoura - Kaikōura

Titties Bay, nestled on the Cape’s western edge, is a pretty shallow spot, capping out around 7m. It’s a shore entry, usually from the north side, then you follow the rock face, weaving through thick kelp beds before crossing to the south. We’ve found the average visibility is a modest 2m, but don’t let that put you off; this is a macro diver’s delight. Keep your eyes peeled in the rocky crevasses for octopus and crayfish, and you might even spot a thornback skate gliding over the sandy patches. This site is best when the swell outside is calm, making for a relaxed, easy dive perfect for refining those close-up photography skills.

Location
Kaikōura, New Zealand, Australasia
Coordinates
-42.436100, 173.687700

Marine Protected Area: Armers Beach

Best Time to Dive in Kaikōura

The warmest water temperatures in Kaikōura occur in February, averaging 18.4°C. The coolest conditions are in September at 13.3°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 18.1°C
  • February: 18.4°C
  • March: 18.1°C
  • April: 17.0°C
  • May: 15.8°C
  • June: 14.6°C
  • July: 13.9°C
  • August: 13.5°C
  • September: 13.3°C
  • October: 13.7°C
  • November: 15.1°C
  • December: 16.9°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Kaikōura

Nearest Dive Centres to Sharks Tooth Kaikoura

Marine Life in Kaikōura

Home to 37 recorded species including 16 reef fish, 8 sharks & rays, 4 other, 2 sea urchins, 2 hard corals, 2 whales & dolphins.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Sharks Tooth Kaikoura

Based on average water temperature of 15.7°C, currents 18 cm/s.

  • Wetsuit (5-7mm) - recommended for 16°C water
  • Hood & Gloves (3-5mm) - helps retain warmth
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum depth for diving at Sharks Tooth Kaikoura?
The maximum depth for diving at Sharks Tooth Kaikoura is 17 meters. This makes it an accessible site for many divers, offering a good range for exploration without extreme depth requirements.
What kind of marine life can divers expect to see at Sharks Tooth Kaikoura?
Divers at Sharks Tooth Kaikoura can expect to encounter an abundant array of marine life typical of Kaikoura. You might spot Moki, Butters, Octopus, Cod, Kingfish, Wrasse, Scorpionfish, Triggerfish, Seals, Crayfish, and Kina. Keep an eye out for the potential presence of Dusky Dolphins, adding to the rich biodiversity of this wildlife haven.
How challenging is the Sharks Tooth Kaikoura dive site for scuba divers?
The Sharks Tooth Kaikoura dive site is rated as intermediate in difficulty for scuba divers. This suggests that divers should have some prior experience and comfort in various diving conditions. It's a great site for those looking to advance their skills beyond beginner level.
When is the best time of year to dive at Sharks Tooth Kaikoura for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions at Sharks Tooth Kaikoura. For general guidance on seasonal diving, you might consult our When to Dive section, but specific local conditions would require further inquiry.
What dive certifications are recommended or required to dive at Sharks Tooth Kaikoura?
The provided data for Sharks Tooth Kaikoura does not specify any recommended or required dive certifications. Given its intermediate difficulty rating, divers should ideally possess a certification that reflects a comfortable level of experience beyond entry-level. It's always best to check with a local dive operator for specific requirements.
What are the typical visibility, current, and water conditions like at Sharks Tooth Kaikoura?
At Sharks Tooth Kaikoura, divers can typically expect an average visibility of 6 meters. Information regarding specific current strengths or general water conditions beyond visibility is not detailed in the provided data.