ABC Bay - Poor Knights Islands

ABC Bay, despite its relatively shallow maximum depth of 7m, is one of our favourite spots at Poor Knights. You’re not here for dramatic drop-offs, but for the sheer density of life tucked into every crevice of the kelp-draped rock wall. We particularly love poking around the darker spots, often finding a Spitlure Frogfish camouflaged perfectly, or coming face to face with a grumpy-looking Crested Blenny. The visibility averages 8m, which isn't gin-clear but honestly, it’s perfect for the intimate scale of this dive. The sandy patches are great for spotting Smooth Skates, and sometimes you'll even catch Pacific sardines shimmering past in thick schools. It's a fantastic site for macro enthusiasts and anyone who enjoys a slow, deliberate exploration. If you visit in winter, keep an eye out for playful seals zipping through the kelp. This site is ideal for photographers and divers who appreciate the smaller, often overlooked inhabitants of the reef.

Location
Poor Knights Islands, New Zealand, Australasia
Coordinates
-36.266800, 174.795600
Type
wall

Marine Protected Area: Cape Rodney-Okakari Point

Best Time to Dive in Poor Knights Islands

The warmest water temperatures in Poor Knights Islands occur in February, averaging 21.9°C. The coolest conditions are in August at 15.8°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 21.4°C
  • February: 21.9°C
  • March: 21.7°C
  • April: 20.6°C
  • May: 19.1°C
  • June: 17.6°C
  • July: 16.5°C
  • August: 15.8°C
  • September: 15.9°C
  • October: 16.6°C
  • November: 18.2°C
  • December: 19.8°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Poor Knights Islands

Nearest Dive Centres to ABC Bay

Marine Life in Poor Knights Islands

Home to 84 recorded species including 53 reef fish, 11 sharks & rays, 4 whales & dolphins, 4 other, 3 crabs & lobsters, 2 sea urchins.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for ABC Bay

Based on average water temperature of 18.8°C, currents 12 cm/s.

  • Wetsuit (3-5mm) - comfortable for 19°C water
  • 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