diving.co.nz · Operator
Tutukaka boat logistics, briefings, and site-selection context.
Dive Spot Guide•
Cave Bay
East-side boulder and kelp dive in the Poor Knights.
Seaward-side cove with a shallow back, a narrow gut, kelp, and a deeper outer face that suits a wide range of divers.
About Cave Bay
Cave Bay sits on the seaward side of the Poor Knights Islands and tumbles down over boulders from a shallow back bay into a much deeper outer face. The site combines kelp, a narrow gut, and a seaweed garden with schooling fish, stingrays, crayfish, scorpionfish, eels, and kingfish activity overhead. It is a flexible dive when easterly conditions stay light, but it is much less appealing when swell or storm energy builds.
•
Research Estimate At Cave Bay
Conservative baseline from public research. No community dives logged yet.
VisibilityVisibility: 20m
AccessModerate entry effort
Aquatic LifeExceptional variety
FacilitiesGood facilities
CurrentLight current
Where Is Cave Bay?
This spotNearby spotsExplore nearby spots on the map
Community sourced coordinates.
Cave Bay Planning Details
Depth range, seasonality, and planning context.
Reported Depth
5m - 70m
Depth Note
Described as having depth ranges suitable from beginner to technical diving, with additional depth available if you seek it out.
Best Season
Year-round; winter often brings clearer water, while settled summer days can be easier on the east side.
Typical Conditions
Easterly sea conditions can affect access and visitation. The bay is more workable when swell is down and the skipper can use the sheltered back of the cove.
Safety & Access At Cave Bay
Hazards, restrictions, and access requirements.
Key Hazards
Waves
Safety Notes
The site is less frequently dived due to easterly sea conditions.
Access Restrictions
Boat access only; best with a skipper who can swap to a sheltered Poor Knights site when easterlies or swell increase.
Legal Notes
The Poor Knights are a marine reserve, so follow reserve rules and skipper instructions.
Local Intel For Cave Bay
Community notes to help plan your visit.
Scuba Diving
Depth range described as suitable for divers from beginner through technical levels.
Snorkeling
The calmer back of the bay can work for snorkellers on calm days, especially around the seaweed garden.
Wildlife at Cave Bay
Species commonly reported at this site, with direct links into their wildlife guides.
Recent Logged Visits At Cave Bay
Community dive logs and visit reports for this site.
Dive Spot Log Averages At Cave Bay
Average conditions based on logged dives & visits.
Conditions
Avg. Visibility20m
Activity
No dive activity logged yet.
