divenow.co.nz · Operator
Operator site page with depth, current, fish, and season context.
Dive Spot Guide•
Northern Arch
Northern Arch is Poor Knights' classic deep arch.
Local operator required
Depth to 50 m+ and potential current make this an advanced site where a guided/operator dive may be appropriate.
Plan a guided boat dive through a deep arch with current, strong fish life, and buoyancy control suited to experienced divers.
About Northern Arch
Northern Arch is a signature Poor Knights arch dive with structure on both sides of the opening and a steep drop into the surrounding blue. The site is known for current-driven fish action, sponge-covered walls, and dramatic relief that rewards precise buoyancy and a confident team. It suits experienced divers who want a classic reserve dive with big schools, strong scenery, and a more demanding profile than the easier Poor Knights spots.
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Research Estimate At Northern Arch
Conservative baseline from public research. No community dives logged yet.
AccessChallenging entry effort
CoralMixed health
Aquatic LifeExceptional variety
FacilitiesGood facilities
Crowd / PopularityQuite busy
CurrentStrong current
Where Is Northern Arch?
This spotNearby spotsExplore nearby spots on the map
Community sourced coordinates.
Northern Arch Planning Details
Depth range, seasonality, and planning context.
Reported Depth
36m - 50m
Depth Note
The arch is very deep, with the bottom of the arch around 40 m and the ends dropping beyond 50 m.
Best Season
Summer
Typical Conditions
Current can run through the arch, and the depth increases quickly beyond the opening down the northern slope.
Safety & Access At Northern Arch
Hazards, restrictions, and access requirements.
Key Hazards
Restricted accessStrong current
Safety Notes
The depth and current make buoyancy control, gas planning, and team communication essential for a safe dive.
Access Restrictions
Boat access only through Poor Knights charters; landing on the islands and rocks is prohibited.
Legal Notes
The marine reserve prohibits landing, fishing, and disturbing marine life, and boats must respect reserve mooring and anchoring rules.
Local Intel For Northern Arch
Community notes to help plan your visit.
Scuba Diving
A deep arch dive with a short opening, strong structure on both sides, and the best viewing zone around the middle layers of the arch.
Freediving
Not a freedive site; the depth and current make this a scuba-only target.
Snorkeling
Not a snorkel site; the main structure and current are too deep and dynamic for casual surface use.
Wildlife at Northern Arch
Species commonly reported at this site, with direct links into their wildlife guides.
Recent Logged Visits At Northern Arch
Community dive logs and visit reports for this site.
Dive Spot Log Averages At Northern Arch
Average conditions based on logged dives & visits.
No community dive data has been logged here yet. Be the first to record a dive and seed the averages.
