Takatu Point - Poor Knights Islands

Takatu Point sits on the calmer, western side of Poor Knights. It's a shallow spot, topping out around 16 metres, making it perfect for those newer to diving or anyone wanting a relaxed second dive. We often find schooling snapper and demoiselles here, darting through the kelp forests that sway gently with the surge. Look closely among the rocks and you might spot a moray eel peeking out or a scorpionfish blending in perfectly. It's a nice, easy entry into the Poor Knights experience without the commitment of deeper, more exposed sites.

Location
Poor Knights Islands, New Zealand, Australasia
Coordinates
-36.362100, 174.863900
Maximum Depth
16m
Difficulty
Beginner

Marine Protected Area: Tawharanui

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 Takatu Point

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 Takatu Point

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