cathedralcovedive.co.nz · Operator
Local dive operator site guide for South Sunk Rock.
Dive Spot Guide•
South Sunk
Clear-water pinnacle at Mercury Bay
Scuba DivingBoatAdvanced
DeepPinnacleReef
Local operator required
The exposed pinnacle and tide-sensitive timing make this best with a local boat operator.
Boat-accessed South Sunk is an experienced-diver New Zealand pinnacle with drop-offs, swim-throughs, and strong temperate fish life.
About South Sunk
South Sunk is a clear-water Mercury Bay pinnacle where a shallow crown drops into a deeper sand edge, with boulders, sponges, and a heavy mix of temperate fish life. It is best for experienced divers who can handle the swim-throughs, crevices, and seasonal pelagic traffic.
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Research Estimate At South Sunk
Conservative baseline from public research. No community dives logged yet.
AccessModerate entry effort
Aquatic LifeExceptional variety
FacilitiesGood facilities
CurrentModerate current
Where Is South Sunk?
This spotNearby spots
Community sourced coordinates.
South Sunk Planning Details
Depth range, seasonality, and planning context.
Reported Depth
0m - 30m
Depth Note
The pinnacle breaks the surface at spring low tide and drops to about 28-30m on the sand, with a 20m drop-off on the southern end.
Best Season
Year-round; warmer months bring more pelagic fish.
Typical Conditions
A top temperate-water pinnacle dive with clear water, drop-offs, swim-throughs, deep crevices, and seasonal pelagic traffic. It rewards experienced divers and underwater photographers.
Safety & Access At South Sunk
Hazards, restrictions, and access requirements.
Key Hazards
Strong currentWaves
Safety Notes
Plan for an ocean site with tide-sensitive timing and use a camera-friendly, buoyancy-clean approach. The best dives come when the boat can work with the water rather than forcing the line.
Access Restrictions
Best handled by a local Hahei or Cathedral Cove boat operator; this is an exposed pinnacle, not a casual shore swim.
Legal Notes
Follow local marine reserve and operator rules, including any site-day access limits and boundary guidance.
Local Intel For South Sunk
Community notes to help plan your visit.
Scuba Diving
Best as a boat dive for experienced divers who are comfortable with exposed water, buoyancy control, and camera work around structure. The site rewards slow looking rather than fast swimming.
Freediving
Not a primary freedive target; the exposed pinnacle and deeper drop-off suit scuba much better.
Snorkeling
Not a primary snorkel site. The useful structure sits on an exposed pinnacle, so it is better treated as a scuba destination.
South Sunk Dive Conditions Planner
Use the planner to scan this week, inspect today in local time, and understand how exposure shapes conditions at South Sunk.
Current Snapshot
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🌥️Variable
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Surface / Entry
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Sea State
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Visibility Outlook
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Exposure Profile at South Sunk
Directional shelter context for incoming swell.
Exposure Note
Hourly forecast data is not available yet.
Wildlife at South Sunk
Species commonly reported at this site, with direct links into their wildlife guides.
Recent Logged Visits At South Sunk
Community dive logs and visit reports for this site.
No Dive Logs Yet
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Dive Spot Log Averages At South Sunk
Average conditions based on logged dives & visits.
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South Sunk Guide - Frequently Asked Questions
Planning answers for access, conditions, timing, and site logistics.
South Sunk Guide - Sources and Updates
Last Updated
Research Sources
www.divepacific.co.nz · Blog
Independent dive blog with South Sunk condition and life descriptions.
www.newzealand.com · Tourism
Official tourism listing for the Hahei dive operator and marine reserve access.
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