Wellington South Coast New Zealand

• Check MetService marine forecasts and warnings before committing to exposed coastlines.
• Plan around tides: currents can intensify quickly near headlands, harbour entrances, and Kapiti Island.
• Use an SMB for scuba and a float and flag for freediving and snorkeling.
• Treat surge seriously at rocky South Coast entries and exit early if conditions worsen.
• Manage cold stress: use thick exposure protection and warm up immediately after diving.
• Do not exceed your training. Kapiti Island and Cook Strait-exposed sites can be advanced environments.

For emergencies in New Zealand, call 111. For suspected decompression illness or diving-related emergencies, seek immediate help and use the national diver emergency pathway. Health New Zealand's hyperbaric medicine information lists a diver emergency service contact number (0800 4DES 111) associated with the Christchurch hyperbaric medicine unit.

For non-urgent health advice, Healthline is available 24/7 at 0800 611 116. Consider dedicated dive insurance (for example, DAN) for evacuation and chamber treatment coverage, especially when diving in variable conditions.

Taputeranga and Kapiti are marine reserves where natural features are protected. Key rules include: no fishing, no taking or damaging natural things (including shells, shellfish, and seaweed), no littering or polluting, and no interference with marine life (including feeding). Keep distance from seals, dolphins, and seabirds and never corner wildlife.

Help prevent the spread of marine pests by cleaning, draining, and drying gear between sites when possible. Stay within reserve boundaries using shore markers and apps like MarineMate.