New Zealand is a country renowned for its stunning landscapes, from snow-capped
mountains to pristine beaches. However, beneath the surface of the blue waters lies.
another world waiting to be discovered.
During my time in the scuba diving diploma, I had the privilege of embarking on numerous exhilarating trips throughout the year. Among the standout destinations, Kaikoura was one I got to venture to many times, but I still saw something new every time. Kaikoura boasts an extraordinary marine environment, attracting divers from around the globe. The region is home to an abundance of marine life, thanks to the cool and warm ocean currents. As you descend into the deep blue waters, you’ll find yourself surrounded by an array of fascinating sea creatures, from playful seals to majestic dolphins.
One of the highlights of diving in Kaikoura is the opportunity to interact with the local marine wildlife. The resident New Zealand Fur Seals are known for their curious and playful
nature, often approaching divers with graceful acrobatics. Swimming alongside
these agile creatures creates unforgettable moments and offers a unique chance to
witness their natural behaviours in their underwater habitat. Nudibranchs also hold a
special place among my favourite marine creatures to encounter. Each time I come
across them, it’s like discovering a new species decorated with unique colours and
intricate patterns. Their size ranges considerably so keep a keen eye on the sea floor.
However, once you’ve spotted one, you’ll find that each nudibranch, despite its
differences, contributes to the collective charm of these captivating underwater
beings.
Kaikoura takes pride in its commitment to marine conservation. Divers are
encouraged to adhere to responsible diving practices, respecting the delicate marine
ecosystem. Along the coast is home to a large marine reserve where you can look
but not touch. This rule serves as a sanctuary for marine life as they know it is a safe
place. This also offers the opportunity to discover and appreciate the thriving sea
creatures living in the protected environment. Nevertheless, there are plenty of spots
along the coast where hunting remains accepted. This opened up new opportunities
for my fellow diploma buddies and me, as we delved into new experiences like
hunting for crayfish, paua, and even trying our hand at spearfishing.