Bream Rock - Poor Knights Islands

El Chuncho, just a short boat ride from Pucusana, is where many Lima divers cut their teeth, and we can see why it’s so popular. It’s a shallow, protected bay, rarely deeper than 13m, making it ideal for those new to kelp forests. Despite the average 4m visibility, which means you’re often diving in a green glow, it truly is an incredible place. We love the feeling of drifting through the thick kelp fronds, almost like an underwater jungle. Sunlight filters down in shafts, and you’re constantly peering around stalks to spot what’s hiding. We’ve seen Pacific speckled crabs scuttling across the holdfasts and long, elegant Pacific cornetfish hanging motionless in the water column. Bumper fish school here too, their silver flashes catching the dim light. Look closely for barred pipefish, they’re masters of camouflage amongst the blades. It’s not about grand vistas here; it’s about the intimacy of the kelp and the hunt for the smaller, fascinating creatures that call it home. We’d suggest going slow, really taking your time to explore the nooks and crannies of the kelp.

Location
Poor Knights Islands, New Zealand, Australasia
Coordinates
-35.837000, 174.607100

Marine Protected Area: Bream 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 Bream Rock

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 Bream Rock

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