Typical NZ dive conditions February - March

[MIdivermb]

I'm planning a 4-6 week trip to NZ for February and March 2026 and would like to dive the Northland area and the marine reserve near Wellington. I'm spoiled by the warm waters of Bonaire and am looking for suggestions about wetsuit thickness and if accessories such as a hood and gloves are also necessary. I live in Michigan so 77+ degrees F is comfortable to me with just a swimsuit or rash guard. Also, preliminary research with Dive!Tutukaka and Paihia Dive shows rates for 2-tank dives around $289 - $319 US for with only tank and weights rental. Is that typical of costs to dive in NZ in 2025?

 

[elmo]

I think you’ll find those prices are in $NZ not $US. So not nearly as dear as you think.

Sea water temperature Poor Knights Islands today | New Zealand

Sea water temperature forecast and historical data for Poor Knights Islands. Today's sea surface temperature report. Average monthly sea temperature

seatemperature.info

Your trip is in (Southern hemisphere) late summer, early autumn. So expect around 20 C (68 F) water temperatures. Most people will be in 7mm or perhaps 5mm wetsuits.

 

[MB NZ]

I've come to the conclusion that there is no typical weather in NZ, at least where I live (near Tutukaka). Almost anything can happen with the weather on any day of the year. That said, on average, you have chosen the best time to visit.

In the north, you can expect water temperatures of 20-22 C. Wellington will be colder. I wear a well fitted 7mm semi-dry wetsuit in summer in the north.

Agree with the above comment about currency and pricing.

 

[Tom_Ivan]

You'll want a 7mm Wetsuit for sure! Those prices in NZD should include a fancy boat trip

 

[JohnN]

I'm planning a 4-6 week trip to NZ for February and March 2026 and would like to dive the Northland area and the marine reserve near Wellington. I'm spoiled by the warm waters of Bonaire and am looking for suggestions about wetsuit thickness and if accessories such as a hood and gloves are also necessary. I live in Michigan so 77+ degrees F is comfortable to me with just a swimsuit or rash guard. Also, preliminary research with Dive!Tutukaka and Paihia Dive shows rates for 2-tank dives around $289 - $319 US for with only tank and weights rental. Is that typical of costs to dive in NZ in 2025?

If you’re comfortable diving a drysuit, rent one for Poor Knights. I did and on the first dive, there were audible murmurs about my manhood and intestinal fortitude.

For the second dive, I was the obvious recipient of envy