drift

Log This Dive

The Sisters

The Sisters, two craggy rocks poking out of the water northeast of Barney's Rock, are a Kaikōura favourite of ours, especially when the conditions line up. It’s a 15 to 20 minute ride south from South Bay Marina, and while the average visibility is around 8m, we’ve had days where it’s pushed 15m, letting you really appreciate the scale of those pinnacles. Dropping in, you feel the cool bite of the water, a stark contrast to the vibrancy you find amongst the rocks. We love exploring the crevices and overhangs, often spotting nudibranchs clinging to the walls, their colours popping against the darker rock. Keep an eye out for crayfish tucked into the shadows – they're everywhere here. There’s a certain thrill to finding a curious seal pup darting between the kelp fronds. We’ve even seen dusky dolphins pass by on the surface as we're gearing up, a real treat. This site suits divers who appreciate a good hunt for macro life and aren't put off by cooler water or the occasional surge. It’s a raw, wild kind of beauty, a true taste of New Zealand diving.