Ann's Rock / Astrid's Wall - Poor Knights Islands

Ann's Rock and Astrid's Wall is one of those sites that just feels right, a classic Poor Knights drift that can really deliver. We usually drop on the outside of Ann's Rock, letting the current carry us along the vibrant wall itself. The sheer density of schooling fish here is what we love – think thousands of demoiselles and swarms of snapper, often so thick you have to fin through them. Keep an eye out for the big pelagics too. We’ve seen striped marlin cruise by in the blue, and bronze whalers are a fairly regular sight. The wall itself is a tapestry of colourful sponges and anemones, with plenty of nooks and crannies to peer into for green wrasse and the occasional crayfish. Our favourite part has to be the feeling of that gentle push of current, gliding effortlessly past the scenery, with the knowledge that anything could swim out of the blue. This site is perfect for divers who appreciate a good drift and want to experience the sheer abundance of Poor Knights marine life.

Location
Poor Knights Islands, New Zealand, Australasia
Coordinates
-35.447370, 174.733730
Type
wall

Marine Protected Area: Poor Knights Islands

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 Ann's Rock / Astrid's Wall

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 Ann's Rock / Astrid's Wall

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