Mcgregor’s Bay - Poor Knights Islands

Pinnacle 2 in Sulawesi gives you a nice, easy dive. It’s a good spot to get back in the water if you haven’t dived in a while, or to just enjoy a relaxed afternoon. The pinnacle itself starts shallow, around 5 metres, making the upper sections perfect for newer divers to practice buoyancy without feeling too exposed. We often see schools of Dark-fin Chromis darting around the fire coral, and if you look closely, you might spot a Blotchfin scorpionfish blending into the sponges. Deeper down, around 20-24 metres, the slope continues, and we’ve caught glimpses of Napoleon Wrasse cruising by. Visibility averages about 17 metres, generally quite clear.

Location
Poor Knights Islands, New Zealand, Australasia
Coordinates
-35.729200, 174.554700
Type
pinnacle

Marine Protected Area: Whangarei Harbour

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 Mcgregor’s 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 Mcgregor’s 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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical depth range for scuba diving at Mcgregor's Bay?
Scuba diving at Mcgregor's Bay typically offers an average depth of 5m. Divers can explore areas up to a maximum depth of 9m within the bay, with specific points at the mouth reaching up to 12m. This makes it suitable for various experience levels.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Mcgregor's Bay?
Divers at Mcgregor's Bay can expect to encounter fingers of encrusted reef running along the bay's edge, complemented by pockets of rocky reef. During the day, common marine life includes Leather jackets, Blennies, Red Moki, Goat fish, and baby snapper. For those diving at night, octopus and eels are best seen.
Is Mcgregor's Bay considered an easy or difficult dive site for different skill levels?
Mcgregor's Bay is considered an intermediate dive site. With an average depth of 5m and a maximum of 9m (12m at the mouth), it offers manageable conditions for divers with some experience. This makes it an excellent location for those looking to advance their skills beyond beginner dives.
When is the best time of year to dive at Mcgregor's Bay for optimal conditions and marine encounters?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive at Mcgregor's Bay for optimal conditions or marine encounters. For general guidance on seasonal diving conditions in New Zealand, please refer to our When to Dive section. We recommend checking local dive operators for current conditions.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended to dive at Mcgregor's Bay?
The specific certifications required or recommended for diving at Mcgregor's Bay are not detailed in the provided information. As it is classified as an intermediate dive site, an Open Water Diver certification is typically a minimum, with Advanced Open Water or equivalent recommended for comfort and skill. Always consult with local dive centers for their specific requirements.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions like for diving in Mcgregor's Bay?
For diving at Mcgregor's Bay, the average visibility is typically 5m. Information regarding typical current conditions is not provided in the available data. Divers should always check with local dive operators for up-to-date conditions before planning their dive.