Waterfall Reef - Poor Knights Islands

Amphora Corner, near Kas, offers a gentle slope dive where you’ll find pottery shards scattered amongst the rocks. It’s a good spot for spotting moray eels tucked into crevices and occasionally a passing loggerhead turtle. We think it’s a calm dive, well-suited for less experienced divers or those looking for a relaxed second dive.

Location
Poor Knights Islands, New Zealand, Australasia
Coordinates
-36.268900, 174.800200
Type
reef

Marine Protected Area: Cape Rodney-Okakari Point

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 Waterfall Reef

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 Waterfall Reef

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 maximum depth for recreational diving at Waterfall Reef?
The typical maximum depth for recreational diving at Waterfall Reef is 12 meters. This makes it a suitable site for divers looking for shallower explorations and is located in the Poor Knights Islands, New Zealand.
What marine life and underwater topography can divers expect to encounter at Waterfall Reef?
Divers at Waterfall Reef can expect to see classic wildlife such as snapper, red moki, eagle rays, and silver drummer. The underwater topography features tall kelp rock formations, transitioning to a sandy/shell bottom. During winter, there is also a possibility of encountering seals.
What is the difficulty level of diving at Waterfall Reef, and is it suitable for beginners?
The difficulty level for diving at Waterfall Reef is classified as intermediate. Due to notable water movement and currents, especially with easterly conditions, it may not be ideal for absolute beginners. Divers should have some experience managing currents.
When is the best time of year to dive Waterfall Reef for the most favorable conditions?
The provided data does not specify a "best time of year" for the most favorable conditions at Waterfall Reef. However, it highlights that tide timing is crucial, with incoming to slack tide being best for an easier return to shore. For those interested in seeing seals, winter offers the possibility of encounters.
Are there any specific scuba diving certifications required or highly recommended for Waterfall Reef?
While no specific certifications are explicitly required or recommended in the data for Waterfall Reef, its intermediate difficulty level suggests divers should be comfortable with varying conditions. Experience with currents and drift diving techniques would be highly beneficial.
What are the typical water currents, visibility, and general conditions like at Waterfall Reef?
Waterfall Reef typically experiences notable water movement and currents, especially under easterly wind and swell conditions. Tide timing is important, with incoming to slack tide being optimal for an easier return to shore. Divers can generally expect an average visibility of 7 meters.