Canyon - Poor Knights Islands

Fingers is one of those Vava'u sites we always try to squeeze in, especially for newer divers or when we just want a relaxed, vibrant dive. It’s an easy run down to 18 metres, following the coral formations that give the site its name, fingers of reef pushing out from the main wall. We love dropping in here mid-morning, when the sun really lights up the coral – the pinks and purples of the soft corals shimmer, and you’ll see schools of Bicolor Chromis darting in and out of the hard coral heads. Keep an eye out for the Trumpetfish hovering vertically, trying to blend in. Our favourite part is the small swim-throughs; they're not tight, more like arches, and sometimes you’ll find a sleepy Undulated Moray tucked away inside. Visibility here is usually great, a comfortable 20 metres most days. We've often seen turtles glide past, and the occasional Napoleon wrasse will cruise by, unbothered. It's a proper healthy reef, full of fish, and really suits anyone looking for an unhurried dive with plenty to see without battling current.

Location
Poor Knights Islands, New Zealand, Australasia
Coordinates
-35.469500, 174.733600
Type
reef

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 Canyon

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 Canyon

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